Dubai: Pilot launch of a four-day working week

Dubai authorities recently announced the pilot launch of the “Our Summer is Flexible” initiative, which aims to reduce working hours.

New developments keep coming up for Dubai and other cities across the UAE, which in many ways also inspire other nations when it comes to newer developments and advancements across sectors. In one such recent development, Dubai authorities, in a pilot launch, recently announced the “Our Summer is Flexible” initiative, which is aimed at reducing the number of working hours.

Aimed at reducing the number of working hours.

The Dubai Government Human Resources Department announced a pilot launch of the “Our Summer is Flexible” initiative. The new initiative, which aims to reduce working hours, making it a four-day working week, will begin on Monday, August 12, 2024. Currently, it is at the participation level, with 15 government entities participating. Starting Monday, working hours will be reduced to seven, and work on Fridays will also be suspended. The initiative will end on September 30, 2024, as per the authorities.

A trial to see how the flexibility of the work environment is enhanced.

This initiative was well-thought-out to see if a trial like this can improve flexibility in the work environment. Currently, this initiative doesn’t apply to the private sector, but people are keeping their fingers crossed that it will be a step in the right direction.

Question on productivity.

Though this initiative has been lauded by many, others have also questioned productivity levels in the public and private sectors. However, a study in Iceland done between 2015 and 2019 showed that reduced working hours had a less negative impact on productivity levels, and in some cases, a positive impact was noted.

Director-general of the DGHR, Abdullah Ali bin Zayed Al Falasi, said, “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.”