Dubai Tests Four-Day Summer Work Week for Government Employees

The government of Dubai has launched a pilot scheme aimed at reducing working hours for select government employees during the summer with a four-day work week. The initiative, known as ‘Our Flexible Summer’, will begin on August 12th and run through September 30th, targeting 15 government organizations across the emirate. 

Alongside the four-day work week, when employees will have Friday off, the program will also introduce a shortened seven-hour workday. 

The initiative is part of Dubai’s broader strategy to enhance employee well-being, improve work-life balance, and ensure workplace safety during the intense summer heat. 

A survey conducted by the Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR) prior to the program's launch revealed strong support for the reduction in working hours. 

This initiative follows in the footsteps of the neighboring emirate of Sharjah, which implemented a four-day working week in 2022.