Ajman Announces Flexible Working Hours for Govt. Employees
Ajman introduces flexible summer hours to protect government employees during peak heat.
The emirate of Ajman has officially announced a flexible working hours system for its government employees, aimed at reducing heat exposure and improving work-life balance during the peak summer season. The initiative is set to commence on Monday, June 29, and will run until August 28.
Under the new schedule, government staff will work reduced hours totaling seven hours per day. From Monday to Thursday, the working window will be from 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM. On Fridays, the workday will conclude earlier, ending at 12:00 PM (noon).
In a circular issued by the Ajman Government, authorities clarified that while entities have the flexibility to implement these hours, employees must not work fewer hours than the prescribed minimum. For organizations operating under shift-based systems, management is tasked with determining official start and end times in accordance with operational requirements and the nature of the work.
This move aligns Ajman with neighboring Dubai, which launched a similar "Flexible Summer" initiative in 2024. Dubai's program, running from late June to mid-September, offers two working models designed to balance employee wellbeing with business continuity.
Broader Heat Safety Measures
Ajman's announcement comes amidst a wider push across the UAE to protect workers from extreme summer temperatures. Earlier this month, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) reinstated the annual ban on outdoor work under direct sunlight. From June 15 to September 15, companies are prohibited from employing workers in open areas between 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM.
The midday ban, now in its 22nd consecutive year in 2026, carries strict penalties for non-compliance. Violating companies face fines of Dh5,000 per worker, rising to a maximum of Dh50,000 if multiple workers are involved. Compliance is being monitored through smart digital tools, field inspections, and public awareness campaigns. Residents are encouraged to report violations via MoHRE's call center, website, or smart application.
Support for Delivery Riders
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by the logistics sector, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai has also expanded its support network. The authority increased the number of temporary rest areas for delivery riders by 53% compared to last year, adding eight new locations to bring the total to 23 spots across metro and bus stations. These facilities are designed to provide crucial respite for riders navigating the city during both regular operations and the midday ban period.
These combined efforts highlight the UAE's commitment to prioritizing the health and safety of its workforce as summer temperatures reach their annual peak.