Page 190 - DGHR PR REPORT - AUGUST 2024

Most government employees in Dubai enjoy a two-and-half-day weekend (Friday half-day, Saturday
and Sunday). With this initiative, employees at participating government departments will enjoy a
longer weekend for seven weeks.

The DGHR did not specify which entities will be part of the pilot scheme, but explained it aims to
“enhance workplace flexibility”. It offers safety at the workplace during the summer and ensures
better work-life balance, it added.
The department had conducted a survey to assess the willingness of government agencies to
reduce working hours during the summer. The initiative will also help reduce energy consumption
within government departments. “The proposal garnered exceptional support through the survey,
highlighting an openness to welcoming changes that will promote the work-life balance and well-
being of employees.”
The DGHR will gauge the impact of the initiative on employees and overall productivity. Studies
both within the UAE and around the world have demonstrated how lesser work hours boost
productivity.

Sharjah, which has a three-day weekend, previously said its employees reported an 88 per cent
increase in productivity and a 90 per cent rise in job satisfaction thanks to its shorter work week.
The move also left customers happier, with a service satisfaction rate of 94 per cent.
The DGHR said it will also “regularly assess” the feedback received to create a final report
summarising the initiative’s outcomes, recommendations, and adaptability to various government
entities.

Abdullah Ali bin Zayed Al Falasi, director-general of the DGHR, said: “The launch will also further
our vision to empower human resources by developing smart solutions and innovative policies to
uplift Dubai’s competitiveness. The initiative aims to enhance employees’ quality of life and
promote sustainable use of government resources, positioning Dubai as the ideal city for a superior
lifestyle.”

https://www.khaleejtimes.com/uae/dubai-to-reduce-work-hours-suspend-friday-operations-for-
some-govt-entities