The United Arab Emirates (UAE) will transition to a four and a half day working week and move to match the typical Monday to Friday approach across much of the rest of the world.
Among the reasons cited for the change was boosting work-life balance and social wellbeing.
The overhaul will come into effect on 1 January across the federation of seven emirates (Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain) that make up the UAE.
Friday afternoon, Saturday and Sunday will form the new weekend, a shift from the current Sunday to Thursday working week.
The Abu Dhabi government said the move was in line with the “UAE’s vision to enhance its global competitiveness across economic and business sectors, and to keep pace with global developments”.
The government of Dubai added: “The new working week will better align the UAE with global markets, reflecting the country’s strategic status on the global economic map.
“It will also boost work-life balance and enhance social wellbeing, while increasing performance to advance the UAE’s economic competitiveness.
Nigel Green, CEO and founder of Dubai-based DeVere Group, noted it was a major cultural, societal and economic shift that he expected to provide a massive boost for the UAE economy.
“The transition to a four-and-a-half-day working week which now aligns with most major economies around the world will prove to be another significant pull for international corporations that are currently based elsewhere,” he added.