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Dubai is making waves again with a groundbreaking initiative.
It was announced by the Dubai government starting next week 15 public sector entities will trial shorter working hours and a four-day work week. This bold move aligns with global trends, where countries like Belgium and Portugal have already embraced reduced work hours to boost productivity and employee satisfaction.
Belgium led the charge in Europe, confirming the success of shorter workdays. The UK followed suit, with businesses reporting positive outcomes. Research shows fewer hours in the office don’t necessarily equate to less productivity. Dubai, keenly observing these international successes, decided it was time to implement its own version of this trend.
The “Our Summer is Flexible” Initiative
The “Our Summer is Flexible” initiative will see public sector workers enjoying a seven-hour workday, four days a week, with Fridays off. This pilot scheme, running until September 30, aims to enhance workplace flexibility, ensure better work/life balance, and promote employee wellbeing. The Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR) announced this trial after conducting extensive surveys.
Most government employees in Dubai already enjoy a two-and-a-half-day weekend (Friday half-day, Saturday and Sunday). With this initiative, employees at participating government departments will enjoy a longer weekend for seven weeks.
The sharjah 4-day work week
Sharjah shifted to a four-day workweek in January 2022. Their employees reported an 88% increase in productivity and a 90% rise in job satisfaction. The move also left customers happier, with a service satisfaction rate of 94 per cent. These impressive statistics underscore the potential benefits of reduced work hours.
The DGHR will gauge the pilot’s impact on employees and overall productivity through regular assessments. Studies both within the UAE and around the world have demonstrated how fewer work hours boost productivity. The department will use feedback to create a final report summarizing the initiative’s outcomes, recommendations, and adaptability for various government entities.
