Dubai resumes four-day work week for government workers this summer; many employees have Friday off
Thousands of Dubai government employees will enjoy greater work flexibility this summer, with some eligible for a three-day weekend under the emirate’s new ‘Our Flexible Summer’ scheme, which will be implemented from June 29.Launched by the Dubai Government Department of Human Resources (DGHR), the program will run until September 10 and introduces reduced working hours and flexible scheduling options aimed at improving employee well-being while ensuring uninterrupted government services.
Two flexible working modes
Under the summer initiative, government entities can choose between two work arrangements based on operational needs. The first model allows employees to work eight hours a day, Monday through Thursday, with Friday off, effectively creating a four-day work week.The second model requires employees to work seven hours a day from Monday to Thursday and four and a half hours on Friday, resulting in a shorter work week.Government agencies can also implement remote work options and flexible schedules where appropriate.
focus on work-life balance
Officials said the move was developed after taking into account employee feedback and changing workplace expectations, especially during the summer when family commitments increase.The program is designed to provide employees with more time with their families, improve overall well-being, and strengthen social and family connections without impacting productivity or service delivery.DGHR said the initiative is in line with Dubai’s broader vision to create a people-centric, future-ready workplace that places quality of life alongside institutional performance.
Employee well-being boosts productivity: Official
Abdullah Ali bin Zayed Al Falasi, Director-General of the Department of Human Resources, Government of Dubai, said the initiative demonstrates that employee well-being and organizational performance are mutually reinforcing.“‘Our Flexible Summer’ program demonstrates that employee well-being and quality of life do not come at the expense of performance. Rather, they are key drivers of institutional success and long-term sustainability,” he said.Al Falasi added that the initiative reflects Dubai’s commitment to developing a more flexible, engaging and future-proof government work environment while enhancing employee experience.
Third year of implementation
The 2026 plan marks the third consecutive year of summer flexibility plans, following similar plans in 2024 and 2025.The move is part of a wider trend of flexible working arrangements in the UAE. Sharjah implemented a four-day working week in 2022, while the UAE federal government also moved to a four-and-a-half-day working week in the same year.Across the world, attempts at a four-day work week are also gaining momentum. A large pilot in the UK involving 61 companies reported improved employee well-being and reduced stress levels, and there was strong support for continuing the model, with several companies adopting it permanently.Dubai officials said the latest move reinforces the emirate’s ambition to create a more flexible, adaptable and people-centred government while maintaining high standards of public services.
