Dubai government employees are set to enjoy more flexibility at work this summer, with the return of the “Our Summer is Flexible” programme starting Tuesday, July 2, and running until September 12.

Announced by the Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR), the initiative gives public sector entities the option to implement one of two flexible workweek models:

• Option 1: Staff work eight hours daily from Monday to Thursday, with Friday off.
• Option 2: Employees work seven hours Monday to Thursday and 4.5 hours on Friday.

Each government entity can choose the model that best suits its operations.

The DGHR says the move aims to boost work-life balance, especially during the summer months. The decision follows the successful pilot run in 2024, which involved 21 government bodies. That trial showed increased productivity, better work environments, and employee satisfaction levels nearing 98%.

This initiative aligns with Dubai’s broader efforts to foster a supportive and productive workplace, especially during the hotter months when flexible hours can make a big difference.

The UAE’s fuel price committee has announced the petrol and diesel prices for July, and motorists will see a noticeable hike at petrol stations starting July 1.

After remaining unchanged in June, fuel prices are going up across the board. The increase comes amid global oil market tensions following conflict between Israel and Iran, as well as reported US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities earlier this month, events that have pushed crude oil prices higher.

Here’s how much you’ll be paying for fuel in July:

• Super 98: Dh2.70 per litre (up from Dh2.58 in June)
• Special 95: Dh2.58 per litre (up from Dh2.47)
• E-Plus 91: Dh2.51 per litre (up from Dh2.39)
• Diesel: Dh2.63 per litre (up from Dh2.45)

The revised rates will take effect on Tuesday, July 1.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has issued a final reminder to private sector companies with 50 or more employees: meet your mid-year Emiratisation targets by Monday, July 1, 2025, or face monthly fines.

Compliance Checks Begin July 1

Starting July 1, the ministry will begin verifying that:

• Emirati employees are officially registered with approved pension funds
• Monthly contributions are being paid in full

Companies failing to comply will be fined Dh9,000 per month for every unfulfilled Emiratisation slot for the first half of the year.

Support and Opportunities for Firms

MoHRE noted that the UAE’s strong economy and job market make it easier than ever to meet hiring goals. Support programmes like Nafis continue to assist companies in attracting qualified Emirati talent.

New Rule for Smaller Firms

The ministry also reminded companies with 20 to 49 employees, especially in 14 key economic sectors, that they are required to hire at least one Emirati by the end of 2025.

These sectors include:

• Information & communications
• Finance
• Healthcare
• Real estate
• Manufacturing
• Transportation & logistics
• Hospitality
• Education
  … and more.

More than 12,000 companies are affected by this rule, and electronic notifications have already been sent.

Act Now to Avoid Penalties

MoHRE urges companies to act without delay and ensure full compliance with Emiratisation policies as the government continues to build a more inclusive and diversified national workforce.