8 Major Changes Coming in the UAE This July

Big changes are coming to the UAE this July—affecting everything from visa rules and work schedules to public health and smoking alternatives. Whether you’re a resident, worker, or frequent traveler, here are 7 key updates you need to know to stay ahead this month.

Visa-Free Entry to Armenia for UAE Residents

Starting July 1, residents of the UAE can now travel to Armenia without needing a visa. The new policy allows stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, your UAE residency visa must be valid for at least six months on your date of arrival.

Previously, this privilege was only extended to UAE nationals. Now, the exemption covers all passport holders residing in any of the six GCC countries.

Emiratisation Deadline Approaches

Companies in the private sector with 50 or more employees have until June 30, 2025 to hit their mid-year Emiratisation target.

As part of the UAE’s push to increase Emirati presence in the workforce, at least 1% of skilled jobs must be filled by Emiratis. Authorities will also monitor whether companies are registering these employees with the social security fund and making proper monthly contributions.

Dubai Rolls Out Flexible Summer Work Hours

Dubai government employees will shift to new summer hours under the ‘Our Flexible Summer’ initiative, which starts July 1 and runs until September 12.

Two work schedules are being introduced:

• Group 1: 8 hours from Monday to Thursday, with Fridays off

• Group 2: 7 hours from Monday to Thursday and 4.5 hours on Friday

The move is designed to boost productivity and support work-life balance during the hot summer months.

Ajman Goes Remote on Fridays

Ajman has also introduced flexible work for government staff this summer. Starting July 1, public sector employees will work remotely on Fridays, while weekday office hours are cut by an hour.

From Monday to Thursday, government employees will clock in from 7:30am to 2:30pm. Services will remain uninterrupted as departments manage internal schedules.

Legal Sale of Nicotine Pouches Begins

A new law taking effect on July 29 will allow the sale of tobacco-free nicotine pouches in the UAE.

These smokeless products aim to help smokers quit by releasing nicotine (and dopamine) without the harmful effects of tobacco. Despite being marketed as a safer option, health experts still warn about the addictive nature of nicotine.

New Health Law to Control Disease Spread in Dubai

Dubai is implementing a new law this month to strengthen efforts in stopping the spread of infectious diseases.

Under the law, anyone infected or suspected of having a contagious illness must avoid contact with others and cannot travel without DHA (Dubai Health Authority) approval. Concealing infections or causing intentional or unintentional spread is strictly prohibited.

School Holidays Are In Full Swing

Most UAE schools are starting their summer break in early July, which will last until late August. Parents are now turning to summer camps to keep children busy, while others are using the break to travel abroad to cooler destinations or visit family.

This two-month vacation period has become a mix of staycations and overseas getaways for UAE families.

Midday Work Ban Still in Effect

The midday break rule, which bans outdoor work under direct sun from 12:30pm to 3:00pm, is ongoing through September 15, 2025.

The rule helps protect outdoor workers from extreme summer temperatures. Companies caught violating it can be fined Dh5,000 per worker, up to Dh50,000 if multiple violations are found.