Dubai’s widely welcomed four-day work week for public sector employees will conclude on Friday, 12 September 2025. Introduced under the ‘Our Flexible Summer’ initiative, the scheme has been in place across government departments since 1 July, offering adjusted working hours to support staff during the city’s peak summer months.
Implemented by the Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR), the scheme is in its second year, building on a successful pilot run in 2024.
The Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR) announces the implementation of the ‘Our Flexible Summer’ initiative across all Dubai Government entities, following the success of its pilot phase in 2024. Aimed at enhancing work-life balance for government employees, the… pic.twitter.com/ORqI6PxhJ7
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) June 15, 2025
Two Models of Work, One Objective
The initiative provided public employees with two shift options:
- A compressed schedule with eight-hour days from Monday to Thursday, followed by a full day off on Friday.
- Alternatively, seven-hour days from Monday to Thursday, with a shorter four-and-a-half-hour shift on Friday.
This structure allowed departments to tailor schedules based on operational needs while maintaining service levels.
Strong Support Across Departments
The 2024 pilot spanned 21 government entities and received widespread approval from both employees and leadership. Internal surveys indicated improved morale, better family time, and steady or increased productivity.
This year, the programme was expanded to include all Dubai government departments. Its success has once again reinforced the value of flexible working, especially during the summer break when family schedules shift and daytime travel becomes more challenging.
Why It Resonated with the Workforce
The initiative resonated especially well among working parents and younger professionals who appreciated the improved work-life balance. With the UAE’s summer heat impacting daily routines, shorter and more flexible shifts helped employees maintain focus and well-being without compromising on delivery.
Officials from DGHR noted that the programme reflects Dubai’s broader commitment to developing a responsive, people-focused public service model. One that values institutional outcomes as much as individual welfare.
Post-Summer Plans: What to Expect
Government departments are expected to resume their standard five-day work week schedule following 12 September. Employees will return to regular office timings, and the temporary summer adjustments will phase out completely.
While no permanent change has been announced, the strong positive response suggests similar flexible programmes may return in future summers.
Private Sector Still Watching
For now, this scheme applies strictly to government employees, but conversations around flexible hours are increasing across the private sector.
Several internal studies by Dubai authorities, including one released in late 2024, suggested that wider adoption of flexible shifts and remote work could help reduce traffic congestion and support employee well-being.
While not yet mandated, such findings have sparked interest in more progressive HR policies among private employers.
Final Weeks to Enjoy the Scheme
With just a few weeks remaining, thousands of public sector professionals are enjoying their final days under the current summer schedule. HR departments across the city are already preparing internal notices to guide staff through the upcoming transition.
The overall sentiment among workers has remained positive, with many hoping for an annual return of the initiative.
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