Page 201 - DGHR PR REPORT - AUGUST 2024

8/8/24, 11:47 AM Dubai to trial four-day work week for public sector employees
Authorities in Dubai have announced a pilot scheme to reduce working hours for selected

government entities during the summer, as per a report by state news agency WAM. This
initiative, known as ‘Our Flexible Summer,’ will commence in the second week of August

and run until the end of September.

It will also suspend work on Fridays, according to the Dubai Government Human

Resources Department (DGHR).

Under this scheme, working hours will be reduced to seven per day for employees in 15
participating government entities, as per the report.

Currently, most government employees in Dubai benefit from a two-and-a-half-day

weekend (Friday half-day, Saturday, and Sunday).

With the new initiative, these employees will enjoy an extended weekend for seven weeks.

While the DGHR has not specified which entities will participate, it highlighted that the
scheme aims to “enhance workplace flexibility,” ensure safety during the summer, and

promote a better work-life balance.

The department conducted a survey to assess the willingness of government agencies to

adopt reduced working hours.

The initiative is also expected to lower energy consumption within government offices.

“The proposal garnered exceptional support through the survey, indicating an openness to
changes that will promote work-life balance and the well-being of employees,” the DGHR

stated.

The DGHR will evaluate the impact of the initiative on employees and overall productivity.

Studies within the UAE and internationally suggest that shorter working hours can boost

productivity.

The DGHR will regularly assess feedback to compile a final report on the initiative’s

outcomes, recommendations, and potential for long-term implementation across various
government entities.

Abdullah Ali bin Zayed Al Falasi, Director-General of the DGHR, said the initiative aligns
with Dubai’s vision to empower human resources through smart solutions and innovative

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