Dubai announces flexible summer working hours for government employees
‘Our Flexible Summer’ initiative returns to Dubai
The Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR) has announced the return of Our Flexible Summer – an initiative that allows for more flexible working environments for government employees.
According to DGHR, employees will follow one of two flexible schedules. Employees in the first group will work seven hours a day from Monday to Thursday and four and a half hours on Friday.
The second group will work eight hours per day from Monday to Thursday, with Friday observed as a day off.
The Flexible Summer initiative will begin this week, from June 29 to September 10, 2026.
The initiative also stated that government entities can also apply for approved flexible working hours and remote working arrangements determined by the nature of their work.
Why do we need this?
The initiative was pilot tested back in 2024, which saw its return in 2025 and now in 2026 due to its success.
The overall aim of the initiative is to promote a healthier life and the overall wellbeing of the government workforce. Meant to enhance work-life balance, the initiative will foster a more supportive work environment, increase employee satisfaction and productivity, and also strengthen family ties, all important aspects of a healthy foundation for society.
The results speak for themselves. Post the pilot phase, which was implemented across 21 government entities in 2024, the results showed enhanced productivity and improved work environments.
UAE’s midday work ban returns
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), earlier this June, also announced the return of the midday work ban.
The Occupational Heat Stress Prevention Policy prohibits outdoor work under direct sunlight daily from 12.30pm until 3.00pm. It came into effect from June 15 and will run until September 15, 2026.
The move reflects the UAE’s commitment to worker wellbeing and high occupational health and safety standards. It supports productivity and further strengthens the UAE’s position as a leading global destination to live, work and invest.
Read more here.
