The Dubai Working Week: 4.5 Days

Approved on 3 January 2022 and already implemented, Dubai is taking a step forward to improve the lives of workers by implementing 4.5 working days a week for UAE federal government employees. Focused on always offering the best possible benefits for their employees, the new average working hours in Dubai a week will consist of 9 working hours Monday - Thursday and just 4 hours on Friday mornings. 

It’s important to note that the days of the Dubai working week may differ, depending on the company. As with many Arab countries, the general working week is Sunday to Thursday, with Friday and Saturday designated as weekend days. However, as more and more foreign professionals flock to Dubai, looking to take advantage of the region’s bustling economy, many are switching to the more Western style of the Monday-Friday workweek. 

As global conversations about workweek lengths and the general well-being of workers become more common, more and more governments and organisations are taking the next step in prioritising employee well-being. Many studies and reports indicate that the Monday-Friday schedule has negatively impacted workers, both mentally and professionally. 

The UAE is the first country to transition to a 4.5 hour work week schedule. Here are some key details: 

• The intensive workdays of Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday will be 9 hour days, with the aim of concentrating the majority of work on these four days and extending the weekend.

• Although workers are still working on Friday mornings for 4 hours, the early release will expand their weekend, giving them more time to focus on friends, family and outside passions. 

• The work week will remain at 40 hours, ensuring that employees are still able to perform their duties. 

• The exact hours will depend on the company, but employees can expect to see some flexibility; schedules could be 7:30am-3:30pm Monday to Thursday and 7:30-12:00pm on Fridays or 8:00am-5:00pm Monday to Thursday and 8:00am-12:00pm on Fridays.

This is just one of the many examples of measures the UAE is taking to improve general working conditions in the region and remain as one of the strongest economies in the world. If you’re ready to take advantage of these opportunities and incorporate your company in the UAE, contact Europe Emirates Group today. 

Written by

Adrian Oton

CEO, Europe Emirates Group