Page 321 - DGHR PR REPORT - AUGUST 2024

8/9/24, 4:56 PM Dubai's four-day working week could be 'win-win proposition', employment experts say | The National
permanently.

The study revealed a significant decrease in rates of stress and illness among the

approximately 2,900 staff who took part.

Belgium became the first country in Europe to legislate the four-day working week, with

the new policy coming into effect nationwide last year.

Germany began a six-month trial in February this year, while Portugal, Scotland and Spain

are also undergoing trials.

Clear guidelines and communication Most four-day week pilot studies have shown
will be essential to ensure the transition
is smooth and effective that the majority of employees self-reported
Richard Jackson, chief operating officer, TASC
Group higher productivity, said Najla Najm, career
practice leader at consulting firm Mercer Middle

East.

“Long working hours are linked to higher rates of heart disease and strokes,” she said. “In

comparison, a four-day week allows more time for people to exercise, undertake physical

therapy, plan healthy meals or catch up on sleep.

“These activities have been shown to make a tangible difference to various health

conditions.”

Every employee is different, however, and there will be some who might be apprehensive,

said Ms Najm.

“There will be some who will embrace the idea with open arms and actively use their extra

free time to do something fun for themselves, returning to work feeling refreshed and

positive.

https://www.thenationalnews.com/news/uae/2024/08/08/dubai-four-day-week-private-sector/ 3/5