Dubai Introduces Summer Flex Work for Efficiency

Longer Weekends, Flexible Schedules – Working for the Government in Dubai This Summer

Dubai once again sets an example in supporting work-life balance: the city has announced that in summer 2025, it will reintroduce flexible work arrangements for some government sector employees. The initiative aims to enhance efficiency, strengthen employee well-being, and adapt to the summer heat.

Two Types of Work Schedules Tailored to Employee Needs

The initiative, effective from July 1 to September 12, 2025, allows affected government bodies to implement the new work schedule at their discretion. Employees will be divided into two groups:

The first group works 8 hours a day from Monday to Thursday, with a full day off on Friday.

The second group works 7 hours a day from Monday to Thursday and 4.5 hours on Friday.

Both systems align with the structure of the official five-day workweek while providing flexibility and allowing employees to enjoy longer weekends – particularly with full or half-day time off on Friday.

Proven Success: More Efficient Work, Satisfied Employees

This is not the first time Dubai's government has applied a flexible work schedule during the summer months. Last year's pilot program, conducted at 21 government entities from August 12 to September 30, yielded surprisingly positive results. A 98% positive feedback was recorded in the system measuring employee satisfaction. Productivity also increased, while the workplace atmosphere improved.

Protection Against the Heat: Midday Work Ban and Rest Stations

Alongside flexible office work, the well-known midday work ban is in effect throughout the UAE, lasting from June 15 to September 15, 2025. This regulation prohibits outdoor work, particularly on construction sites, from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM to reduce health risks caused by the heat.

Compliance with the regulation is monitored, and a fine of 5,000 dirhams per worker can be imposed for violations – the maximum fine can reach 50,000 dirhams if multiple workers are involved.

To protect workers, over 10,000 air-conditioned rest stations have been set up across the country to allow delivery and construction workers to rest in shade and safety during the hottest periods.

Summary

Dubai's summer labor initiatives focus on boosting productivity and employee well-being. The flexible work schedule not only provides longer weekends but also helps avoid excessive heat exposure. Such exemplary measures highlight that smart urban development is about not only infrastructure but also human factors.

(Source: Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR) statement.)