Dubai Government Announces 4-Day Work Week and Shorter Summer Hours for Public Sector Employees

Dubai:In a progressive move to enhance work-life balance and employee well-being, the Dubai Government has announced a new summer working schedule for public sector employees. The policy will be implemented from **July 1 to September 12, 2025**.

### **Two Schedules, One Goal**

Under the plan, employees will be divided into **two groups**:

* **Group 1:** Will work **8 hours a day from Monday to Thursday**, with **Friday off**.
* **Group 2:** Will work **7 hours a day from Monday to Thursday**, with **half-day work on Friday**.

This initiative is an extension of last year’s pilot program titled **“Our Summer is Flexible,”** introduced by the **Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHRD).**

### **Employee Feedback and Results**

Before launching the pilot program, the government conducted a survey to gauge employees’ preferences. A majority supported reduced working hours during **August and September**, citing heat and productivity concerns. The DGHRD labeled the pilot a success and decided to **continue the scheme for another year**.

### **Official Statement**

**Abdulla Al Falasi**, Director General of the DGHRD, stated:

> “We aim to enhance the quality of life for government employees, and in doing so, maintain Dubai’s position among the world’s top cities. This model sets a new standard that strengthens the balance between work and life.”

### **Reflecting a Global Trend**

Dubai’s move aligns with a growing global shift toward **4-day workweeks**. **Sharjah** adopted a similar model in **2022**, and the **UAE federal government** implemented a **4.5-day workweek** in **January 2022**.

In the **UK**, a major 2022 pilot program involving **61 companies** reported overwhelmingly positive results. None of the participating employees wanted to return to a 5-day workweek. Companies cited **improved employee well-being**, **lower stress levels**, and **increased productivity**. Nearly **one-third** of those companies have made the 4-day workweek permanent.

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