The Government of Dubai has announced that it will transition to a four-and-a-half day working week, effective from 1 January 2022.

The decision complies with the new system adopted by the UAE Federal Government.

According to the decision, the working week extends from Monday to Thursday. Friday will be a half day. The new weekend will fall on Saturday and Sunday.

The move is aligned with Dubai’s vision to strengthen its economic competitiveness globally and consolidate its status as a regional and international business hub. The decision also seeks to enhance quality of life, boost productivity and enhance work-life balance in the emirate.

The official working hours based on the new system will be 7:30 am to 3:30 pm from Monday to Thursday (eight hours of work) and 7:30 am to 12:00 pm on Friday (four and a half hours of work).