Page 150 - DGHR PR REPORT - AUGUST 2024

8/9/24, 4:58 PM Dubai to Pilot Reduced Summer Work Hours and Extended Weekends for Government Entities
Starting from August 12 to September 30, this initiative will see participating entities

reduce their work hours to seven per day and suspend operations on Fridays, as

confirmed by the Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR).

The initiative targets 15 government entities, though specific entities have not been
disclosed. The move aims to enhance workplace flexibility, improve safety during the

summer, and promote a better work-life balance for employees. This effort aligns with

Dubai’s vision to empower human resources by developing innovative policies and smart

solutions, further boosting the city's competitiveness.

Most government employees in Dubai already benefit from a two-and-a-half-day weekend,

comprising a half-day on Friday, and full days on Saturday and Sunday. With the

introduction of this initiative, employees at the participating entities will enjoy extended

weekends for seven weeks.

The DGHR surveyed to gauge the willingness of government agencies to adopt reduced

working hours during the summer, revealing strong support for the initiative. Benefits cited

include improved work-life balance, enhanced well-being of employees, and reduced

energy consumption within government departments.

The impact of the initiative on employees and overall productivity will be monitored closely.

Global studies and local precedents, such as Sharjah's three-day weekend, have shown
that shorter work weeks can significantly boost productivity and job satisfaction. Sharjah

reported an 88% increase in productivity and a 90% rise in job satisfaction following its

shift to a shorter work week.

Abdullah Ali bin Zayed Al Falasi, Director-General of the DGHR, stated that the

initiative aims to enhance the quality of life for employees and promote the sustainable use

of government resources. The DGHR will continuously assess feedback and compile a

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