The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has taken a progressive step by launching guidelines to regulate flexible working arrangements within the country. The initiative, led by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR), introduces the General Framework for Employment Patterns and Flexible Work Types in the Federal Government, which has been endorsed by a Cabinet decision.
Empowering Flexible Work in the UAE
The framework outlines various approved employment patterns and work types sanctioned at the federal government level, in accordance with the Human Resources Law in the Federal Government and its executive regulations. Among the approved flexible work conditions are remote work options within the country, remote work from outside the UAE, hybrid work setups, and compressed work schedules.
FAHR emphasises that these guidelines align with the UAE’s strategic vision for future work requirements, ensuring uninterrupted business operations and task performance during official working hours across federal entities. Additionally, the framework aims to enhance operational efficiency and institutional performance while facilitating the recruitment and retention of skilled talent through the flexibility provided by federal Human Resources Legislation.
A Leap Towards Future-Ready Workforce Management
This framework represents a significant enhancement in proactive measures, adaptability, and flexibility within the federal government’s human resources legislation. It supports the UAE’s long-term objectives, particularly those outlined in the “We the UAE 2031” vision, which prioritises advancing government performance and adopting best-in-class business models to achieve optimal outcomes.
The legislation is instrumental in establishing an exemplary model for managing human resources and government competencies. It keeps pace with evolving work environments driven by technological advancements and embraces global trends in government work practices, including the widespread adoption of flexible work systems worldwide.
Implementation and Education
To ensure effective implementation, FAHR plans to conduct a series of introductory workshops on the General Framework for Employment Patterns and Flexible Work Types in the Federal Government throughout February. These workshops will target HR managers and officials in ministries and federal entities, aiming to facilitate a thorough understanding and maximise the benefits of the framework.
The launch of these guidelines reflects the UAE’s commitment to fostering a dynamic and resilient workforce capable of navigating the challenges of the modern workplace while driving innovation and productivity across government sectors.
