The Dubai Government has announced new working hour rules for employees.
Flexible operating hours and a four-day week will be available to some employees throughout the summer as part of an initiative to enhance work-life balance.
The Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR) announced the implementation of the “Our Flexible Summer” initiative across all Dubai Government entities, following the success of its pilot phase in 2024.
Dubai flexible working
The DGHR said: “Aimed at enhancing work-life balance for government employees, the initiative will run from July 1 to September 12, 2025 and will be implemented based on each entity’s discretion”.
The Government department highlighted that the implementation of the initiative will align with the official five-day working hours and employees will be divided into two groups:
- The first group will work eight hours from Monday to Thursday and enjoy Friday as a full holiday
- The second group will work seven hours from Monday to Thursday and 4.5 hours on Friday
The results from the pilot phase of the initiative, implemented across 21 government entities in 2024, demonstrated enhanced productivity and improved work environments.
Data also showed an increase in employee satisfaction and happiness, reaching up to 98 per cent, while assessments under the Dubai Government Excellence Programme highlighted clear improvements in the performance of participating entities.
The initiative’s expansion this year aligns with the “Year of Community” and represents a strategic step towards enhancing work-life balance for government employees. By fostering a flexible and supportive work environment, the initiative aims to boost employee satisfaction and productivity, while also strengthening family ties—the foundation of a cohesive society.
Abdullah Ali bin Zayed Al Falasi, Director-General of the Dubai Government Human Resources Department, said the “Our Flexible Summer” initiative reflects the strategic direction of the Government of Dubai to place people at the heart of its policies.
He said: “This initiative demonstrates our firm commitment to enhancing the government work environment, making it more adaptable and responsive to the needs of employees and the community.
“The implementation of this year’s expanded edition, builds on the successful outcomes of the 2024 pilot phase. It reflects a comprehensive vision aimed at developing an advanced government system that balances institutional efficiency with human well-being.
“This supports Dubai’s aspirations to lead in delivering flexible, sustainable, and people-centric government services.”
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