Dubai introduces four-day summer work week for government employees

26/06/2026 03:28 AST

Government employees in Dubai will once again have the option of a four-day work week during the summer under the 2026 edition of the 'Our Flexible Summer' initiative, as the emirate expands flexible working arrangements to improve work-life balance while maintaining public services.

The initiative, launched by the Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR), will run from June 29 to September 10, 2026, offering government entities two flexible work models based on operational requirements.

Under the first model, employees will work seven-hour days from Monday to Thursday and four-and-a-half hours on Fridays. The second model effectively creates a four-day work week, with employees working eight-hour days from Monday to Thursday and taking Fridays off. Government entities may also continue to implement approved flexible hours and remote working arrangements where appropriate.

The programme is designed to help employees spend more time with their families during the summer while ensuring uninterrupted government services.

The initiative forms part of Dubai's broader strategy to create more people-centred and future-ready workplaces by giving greater flexibility to government employees without compromising productivity or service delivery.

According to DGHR, the programme was developed after studying employee needs and feedback, with the aim of supporting family life during the summer months while enabling government departments to maintain operational efficiency.

Abdullah Ali bin Zayed Al Falasi, Director General of the Dubai Government Human Resources Department, said the initiative has shown that employee wellbeing and quality of life complement, rather than hinder organisational performance.

He said investing in employee welfare strengthens productivity, innovation and the long-term sustainability of government institutions, while making Dubai's public sector a more attractive place to work.

Trade Arabia