In an effort to ease traffic and reduce the number of cars on the road, Dubai authorities have approved plans to implement flexible working hours and remote work policies in the emirate.

Announced by the Executive Council of Dubai this week, the move forms part of  wider strategy to relieve congestion, improve business efficiency, and uplift the quality of life for residents.

The plans were approved by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, while he chaired the meeting on Wednesday, May 8, during the Arabian Travel Market.

On his website, His Highness expanded on the plans, stating it will include a combination of pubic transport initiatives, remote working arrangements, and flexible working hours for the public and private sectors. Specific targets include improving the trip times of public bus routes by up to 59 percent, and improving the traffic flow around schools by 13 percent.

Previously, the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) conducted a survey to gather information on traffic movement patterns and resident’s options with regards to remote and flexible working.

Questions on the survey asked about the number of hours worked per day, official working days per week, and whether or not your company allows for flexible or remote working.

The information collected from the survey will be used to inform the upcoming the plans, taking into consideration commuting behaviours, rush hour traffic, and employee preferences.