Today: Thursday December 18, 2025 : Jumada al-Thani 27, 1447 AH- Dubai Public and Private Sectors to Work from Home on Friday Due to Heavy Rain
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Dubai Public and Private Sectors to Work from Home on Friday Due to Heavy Rain
Authorities urge remote work for safety as heavy rain and thunderstorms hit Dubai.
- Publish date: since 4 hours Reading time: two min read
In response to continued heavy rain and unstable weather, Dubai’s authorities have instructed government employees to work from home on Friday, December 19, 2025, as part of efforts to protect public safety and reduce risks associated with travel during adverse conditions.
The directive, issued by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, applies to all staff across Dubai government entities except those in essential roles that require a physical presence at the workplace. The move comes after a second day of rain battered the city and the wider northern emirates, leading to isolated flooding and travel disruption.
Alongside the work-from-home directive, officials have encouraged private sector employers to adopt similar remote work measures where feasible to ensure the safety of their employees during the ongoing bout of unstable weather.
Earlier on Thursday, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) strongly encouraged private sector employers across the UAE to prioritise the safety of their employees by implementing all necessary safety measures on December 18 and December 19.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has forecast that the storm system will continue into Friday, with rainfall accompanied by strong winds, thunder and possible hail in various parts of the UAE, including Dubai. Residents are being urged to stay indoors unless travel is essential, and authorities have reminded motorists to exercise caution when on the roads.
Dubai Police have also appealed to the public to prioritize safety, advising people to avoid beaches, valleys and other areas prone to flooding, and to reduce speeds while driving in slick conditions.
As the city braces for further rain and rough weather, the work-from-home directive is intended to help minimise commuter risk and support continuity of government services during this period of intense weather.