Dubai's four-day workweek trial could be a catalyst for change in the GCC?
The scheme is designed to enhance workplace flexibility during the Gulf region’s often intense summer heat, which often exceeds 40 degrees Celsius.
Dubai: The emirate has launched a pilot program called "Our Flexible Summer" that reduces working hours for some government employees to a four-day week from August 12 to September 30. This initiative aims to combat the intense summer heat while enhancing workplace flexibility.
It involves 15 Dubai government organizations, with Fridays off, and a reduction in daily working hours from nine down to seven hours.
This isn't the first time the UAE has experimented with shorter workweeks. In 2021, the country implemented a 4.5-day workweek for federal employees, shifting weekends to Saturdays and Sundays. Sharjah followed suit in 2022 with a full four-day workweek.
Potential ripple effects
Experts believe Dubai's latest move could be a game-changer for the entire GCC region. Mursaleen Khawaja, director of Madison Pearl, a Dubai-based recruiting firm, predicts that while the adoption of a shorter workweek will be gradual, the UAE and GCC will eventually follow suit.
"Dubai historically leads these changes, and others follow," Khawaja said. He emphasizes that flexibility is a top priority for job seekers today, and a shorter workweek can be a powerful recruitment tool.
Khurram Shehzad, Director of PROVEN, a Saudi-based business services company, shares Khawaja's optimism. He believes a shorter workweek can boost Dubai's global competitiveness, enhance employee well-being, and stimulate the economy. Shehzad predicts that Saudi Arabia could also adopt a similar model in the future.
Challenges and opportunities
While the potential benefits of a four-day workweek are evident, challenges remain. Professor Fiona Robson from Heriot-Watt University Dubai cautions that maintaining productivity and employee well-being requires careful planning. She also highlights the potential impact on part-time staff and the need for clear communication and consultation during implementation.
Nina Pacic, a people business partner at Sovereign PRO Partner Group, agrees that not all industries will benefit equally from a shorter workweek. Sectors like tourism and finance, which rely on global market activity, may face challenges.
Employee perspectives
Employees are generally enthusiastic about the prospect of a shorter workweek. Najla Najm, Career Practice Leader for the Middle East at Mercer, cites research showing that employees report higher productivity, less stress, and improved work-life balance after implementing a four-day week.
Natasha Hatherall-Shawe, Founder and CEO of TishTash Communications, has experienced firsthand the benefits of a reduced workweek. Her company has moved to a 4.5-day week, and she believes it has improved staff retention and performance.
A global trend
Dubai's experiment is part of a broader global movement towards shorter workweeks. Countries like Iceland, Spain, and Japan have conducted similar trials with promising results.
The road ahead
The success of Dubai's four-day workweek pilot will undoubtedly influence policies across the UAE and the GCC. While challenges exist, the potential benefits for employees, businesses, and economies are significant. As AI and automation continue to reshape the workplace, shorter workweeks may become the norm rather than the exception.
The coming months will be crucial in determining the future of work in the region. As Dubai leads the way, the world will be watching closely.
Source: Al Arabiya English