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Dubai is rolling out a new summer work schedule for public sector employees, introducing shorter hours and a four-day workweek as part of its “Our Flexible Summer” initiative. The updated program builds on a 2024 pilot and officially begins on Tuesday, July 1, running through Friday, September 12, 2025, according to Time Out Dubai.
The initiative, led by the Dubai Government Human Resources Department, is intended to improve work-life balance and overall employee satisfaction. The decision follows the success of last summer’s trial, which initially involved 15 government entities. This year, the program has expanded to include 21.
How the New Schedule Works
Government staff will be split into two groups to maintain service continuity throughout the workweek.
- Group One will operate on a four-day schedule, working eight hours from Monday to Thursday, with Fridays off.
- Group Two will also work Monday to Thursday but on a slightly reduced schedule of seven hours per day, followed by a half-day on Friday.
Despite the changes, the total working hours will remain aligned with the standard five-day public sector week.
Positive Results from 2024 Trial
Last year’s pilot was deemed a success, with officials reporting improvements in employee morale, productivity, and the overall work environment. This year’s extended version is part of a larger push tied to the UAE’s “Year of Community,” aiming to support family life and personal well-being during the summer school break.
While the current summer schedule applies only to government employees, discussions around flexible work options continue. A 2024 Dubai government survey found that remote work and staggered hours could ease traffic congestion during peak times.
Additionally, a UAE government white paper published in January 2025 highlighted the long-term advantages of adopting flexible and remote work policies across both public and private sectors.
