UAE’s MOHRE recommends remote work for private sector until March 3

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has advised private sector companies across the UAE to implement remote working arrangements wherever possible and minimise employees’ presence in open areas, except for roles that require physical attendance.

The guidance will remain in effect for three days, from March 1 to March 3, 2026, as authorities continue to monitor the evolving situation.

In its advisory, the Ministry urged private establishments to take necessary measures to avoid deploying workers in exposed outdoor locations, while ensuring that vital and essential functions continue uninterrupted. It also clarified that decisions related to suspending work or modifying operations ultimately rest with competent local authorities within their respective jurisdictions.

MOHRE further called on companies to closely follow official updates issued at both federal and local levels to ensure employee safety and regulatory compliance.

Separately, UAE officials moved to reassure residents about the country’s security posture. Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, said the UAE has intercepted more than 137 ballistic missiles and over 200 drones, with most damage limited to falling debris.

Speaking to CNN, Al Hashimy acknowledged that recent loud sounds heard by residents were largely the result of interception activity. “I know it’s a scary time for a lot of the residents… those are sounds of interception and where there has been damage, primarily debris,” she said.

Al Hashimy emphasised that the UAE possesses one of the world’s most advanced air defence systems and reiterated the leadership’s commitment to maintaining safety and security for citizens and expatriates alike.

The Ministry’s remote work recommendation forms part of precautionary measures aimed at safeguarding workers while maintaining business continuity across the private sector.

To safeguard students and staff, the Ministry of Education (UAE) and the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (UAE) have directed all educational institutions nationwide to shift to distance learning until March 4. 

The move, which applies to students as well as teaching and administrative staff across public and private schools and universities, will run from Monday, March 2, through Wednesday, March 4, 2026. 

Authorities said the situation will be continuously assessed during the week and the remote learning period may be extended if required, depending on further developments.