Dubai expands flexible summer work scheme for government employees

Dubai has announced the return of its flexible summer working initiative for government employees, extending alternative work arrangements from June 29 to September 10 as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance employee wellbeing, work-life balance and productivity during the peak summer season.

The programme, titled Our Flexible Summer, was first introduced in 2024 and allows participating government entities to adopt one of two work models while maintaining operational continuity and service standards.

Under the first model, employees will work seven hours a day from Monday to Thursday and four-and-a-half hours on Fridays. The second model enables employees to work eight hours a day from Monday to Thursday, with Friday designated as a full day off.

The initiative effectively extends weekends for many government workers, who currently enjoy a two-and-a-half-day weekend schedule comprising a half-day on Friday and full weekends on Saturday and Sunday.

Government departments will also retain the flexibility to implement approved remote working arrangements and customised schedules based on operational requirements and the nature of specific roles.

According to the Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR), the initiative was developed after evaluating employee feedback and evolving workforce expectations. The programme seeks to support employees and their families during the summer months while ensuring uninterrupted delivery of government services.

Abdullah Ali bin Zayed Al Falasi, Director General of DGHR, said the initiative has demonstrated that employee wellbeing and quality of life contribute directly to organisational performance.

“The Our Flexible Summer initiative has demonstrated that employee well-being and quality of life do not come at the expense of performance. On the contrary, they are among the key enablers of institutional success and long-term sustainability,” he said.

Al Falasi added that the programme reflects Dubai’s broader approach to building flexible, people-centric workplaces that strengthen employee experience while supporting government entities’ future-readiness.

The initiative also aligns with the UAE’s ‘Year of Family’ goals for 2026 by enabling employees to spend more time with their families during the school holiday period, supporting stronger family connections and overall wellbeing.

The announcement comes alongside wider measures aimed at protecting workers during the region’s intense summer heat. 

Earlier this month, the UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation reinstated its annual midday work ban, prohibiting outdoor work and activities under direct sunlight between 12:30pm and 3:00pm from June 15 to September 15.

Now in its 22nd consecutive year, the regulation is designed to safeguard workers from heat-related risks. Employers found violating the rule face fines of Dh5,000 per worker, with penalties reaching up to Dh50,000 for multiple violations.

Dubai has also expanded support for delivery riders, increasing the number of temporary rest areas across the city by 53% compared with last year. The Roads and Transport Authority has designated 23 rest locations at metro and bus stations to help riders take shelter during the midday work ban.

The renewed flexible working initiative highlights Dubai’s continued focus on employee wellbeing, workforce sustainability and modern workplace practices, positioning flexibility as a key driver of productivity and long-term organisational success.