Flexible working hours for UAE government workers for return to school

Government workers in the UAE will have flexible hours to accommodate the return of their children to schools and nurseries. Staff with children in primary and secondary schools can start late and leave early, as long as they are not gone for more than three hours. The rule applies only to the first day of school and takes into account staggered returns.

The same policy extends to nursery staff for the first week of the 2026-27 academic year. Federal employees can also attend important school events for their children, as long as their absence does not interfere with work duties. They may request permission for up to three hours of absence for meetings, ceremonies, or activities, provided it doesn't conflict with federal HR laws.

The flexible working plan was launched in 2018 to promote a better work-life balance for federal employees. With hundreds of thousands of pupils returning to classrooms across the UAE, police forces have increased patrols and transportation measures. Dubai Police will deploy 253 patrols and 28 drones, while the RTA will increase bus frequencies and add taxis in school zones.

Abu Dhabi and Sharjah police will bolster their presence around schools and major intersections, and Ajman will place officers to manage traffic and monitor school buses. Ras Al Khaimah Police will also ramp up patrols around schools and organize traffic and pick-up areas.