The Dubai government’s human resources department has announced the launch of a pilot project in the emirate that will see reduced working hours for participating government entities as well as an off day on Friday.
As many as 15 government entities are participating in the ‘Our Flexible Summer’ initiative, which will run from August 12 to September 30, 2024. During this period, working time will be reduced to seven hours.
This builds on Sharjah’s introduction of a four-day work week in 2022, following the UAE government’s switch to a four-and-a-half day week earlier that year.
Sharjah has implemented a 4-day work week in several of its government departments, including the education sector and all other public offices.
Flexible work environment
“The initiative underscores DHGR’s unwavering commitment to fulfilling the requirements of various government entities, enhancing the performance of employees as well as their quality of life while nurturing a flexible work environment. It also seamlessly aligns with goals envisioned under the wise leadership’s ambitious ‘Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033’, which aims to enhance residents’ wellbeing, positioning Dubai as a global destination for long-term settlement and work,” the Dubai Media Office said in a statement.
“We are thrilled to announce that DGHR will be launching the ‘Our Flexible Summer’ initiative, in line with our long-standing efforts to nurture a flexible work environment that promotes the work-life balance of government employees, in accordance with best international practices. 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,” said Abdullah Ali bin Zayed Al Falasi, Director General of DGHR Department.
Positive feedback
In preparation for the launch, DGHR conducted a survey to understand the opinions of various government entities and their willingness to reduce working hours during summer. The initiative will empower employees to engage in leisure activities after work and 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.
DGHR will also provide relevant government entities with the requisite resources to pass on feedback regarding the impact of the initiative on employees and overall productivity.
Largest-ever four-day work week trial in U.K.
Moreover, the United Kingdom hosted the largest-ever trial of a four-day work week in 2022. Afterward, most of the 61 participating companies pledged to continue the policy, and a third made the switch permanent. Notably, none of the 2,900 trial participants wanted to revert to a five-day week, and all companies reported reduced employee stress and improved health.
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