Public sector workers in Dubai can look forward to shorter workweeks and more time off this summer as part of the newly expanded ‘Our Flexible Summer’ initiative, the Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR) has announced.

Running from July 1 to September 12, 2025, the initiative allows government employees the option of a four-day workweek or reduced Friday hours, depending on the schedule adopted by their respective government entity.

How the flexible schedule works

Under the new scheme, employees will be divided into two groups:

• Group 1: Work 8 hours a day from Monday to Thursday, with Friday off
• Group 2: Work 7 hours from Monday to Thursday, and 4.5 hours on Friday

The aim is to offer greater flexibility and improved work-life balance, while ensuring that public services continue without disruption. Each government department can choose how best to implement the new schedule.

Last year, the employee happiness rate was 98 per cent

The initiative follows the successful pilot phase conducted last year across 21 government entities, where the new summer schedule led to higher productivity, stronger team morale, and a whopping 98 per cent satisfaction rate among employees.

Assessments conducted as part of the Dubai Government Excellence Programme also reported improved operational efficiency and better overall performance from participating departments.

Part of the ‘Year of Community’

The summer workweek initiative aligns with the UAE’s ‘Year of Community’, reflecting a broader push to create a more balanced, family-friendly and people-first work environment.

Abdullah Ali bin Zayed Al Falasi, Director General of DGHR, said the initiative underscores Dubai’s commitment to putting people at the centre of government strategy.

“This builds on last year’s success and demonstrates our ongoing efforts to support employee wellbeing, institutional performance and flexible, sustainable public service,” he said.

A people-first government model

The Dubai Government said the expansion of ‘Our Flexible Summer’ represents a strategic step towards a more progressive and human-centric public sector, strengthening family bonds and social cohesion while maintaining service excellence.

Employees and departments are encouraged to work collaboratively to ensure smooth implementation during the summer period.

Cancer patients in the UAE will soon have access to one of the most advanced cancer treatments in the world, right here in Dubai.

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has given the green light to Yas Healthcare, a subsidiary of Das Holding, to build the UAE’s first proton therapy centre. This cutting-edge facility is expected to open by the end of 2028, with construction starting in early 2026.

What is Proton Therapy?

Proton therapy is a type of highly precise radiation treatment that uses targeted beams to destroy cancer cells while protecting healthy tissue. It’s especially effective for:

• Children with cancer
• Tumours located near sensitive organs like the brain, spine, or eyes
• Patients needing treatment with fewer side effects

Until now, many UAE residents had to travel abroad, sometimes for months, to access this treatment. But with the new Yas Proton Therapy Centre in Dubai, patients will receive world-class care here.

Why It Matters for Patients and Families

Dr. Mohamad Zaki, Medical Director of Yas Healthcare, said the new centre will make cancer treatment more accessible and affordable, especially for young patients and those with complex cases.

“Proton therapy provides a treatment option with fewer side effects and lower toxicity for certain cancer types,” he explained.

For families, this means:

• Less emotional and financial stress from travelling overseas
• Faster access to advanced treatment
• Better chances of recovery with minimal disruption to daily life

Global Expertise, Local Impact

The project will be developed in collaboration with the National Cancer Centre Singapore. Their team will bring world-class knowledge to ensure the centre meets international standards in both safety and results.

Dr. Michael Wang from the NCCS shared, “Proton therapy is changing how we treat cancer, and now UAE patients will benefit from it too.”

A Vision for Healthier Lives in Dubai

Dr. Alawi Alsheikh-Ali of DHA said the centre is part of Dubai’s long-term goal to become one of the top 10 cities in the world for healthy life expectancy.
“This new facility will improve cancer care for our community and attract patients from across the region,” he said.

The project supports major UAE initiatives including the:

• National Strategy for Wellbeing 2031
• Dubai Social Agenda 33
• Dubai Economic Agenda D33
• Dubai Medical Tourism Vision

Starting end of July 2025, a new public health law will take effect in Dubai, bringing sweeping changes to workplace and residency medical exams, driver’s licence regulations, and healthcare services.

Issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Law No. (5) of 2025 aims to protect and enhance public health in Dubai, addressing everything from family well-being and adolescent health to elderly care and substance abuse prevention.

Key Changes Coming Your Way

1. New Rules for Medical Exams
Expect updated regulations for:

• Pre-employment screenings
• Residency and visa-related medicals
• Driving licence and professional driver’s permits
• Issuance of professional health cards

2. Support for Youth and Elderly Health

• Focus on the mental and physical health of adolescents
• Action against risky behaviours among youth
• Integrated healthcare for seniors, with a focus on accessibility

3. Family Health First
Dubai Health Authority (DHA) will roll out:

• Maternal health and birth spacing education
• Child immunisation campaigns
• Premarital screening for hereditary conditions
• Family nutrition and wellness programs

4. Workplace & Community Awareness
DHA will lead awareness drives on:

• Healthy lifestyle habits
• Disease prevention & regular screenings
• Risks of psychoactive substance abuse

5. Backing Medical Research & Patient Rights
The law also mandates:

• Stronger support for medical research
• Clear patient rights and privacy frameworks
• Stricter protocols for malpractice prevention

Penalties for Violations

Violators of the new public health law face fines ranging from Dh500 to Dh1 million. Repeat offences could lead to penalties as high as Dh2 million.

The Bigger Goal

This law isn’t just about regulation, it’s about building a healthier, more resilient Dubai. It encourages residents, businesses, and healthcare providers to share responsibility in making Dubai a global model for preventive healthcare and sustainable well-being.