Flexible working

What Is Flexible Working? 

Flexible working refers to any work arrangement that allows employees to adjust when, where, or how they work, instead of sticking to a rigid schedule or location.

In short, it’s about giving people more control over their working hours and environments, while still getting the job done.

Types of Flexible Working Arrangements

There’s no one-size-fits-all. Here are the most common types:

1. Flexible Hours (Flexitime)

Employees choose when to start and end their workday, within limits. For example, working 8 hours a day anytime between 7am and 7pm.

2. Remote Working

Employees work from home or any location outside the office. Common in roles that don’t require a physical presence.

3. Hybrid Working

A mix of office and remote work. For instance, three days in the office and two days at home.

4. Compressed Workweeks

Employees work longer hours over fewer days (e.g. 4 days x 10 hours instead of 5 days x 8 hours).

5. Job Sharing

Two people share the responsibilities of one full-time job.

6. Part-Time or Reduced Hours

Employees work fewer hours or days per week than full-time staff.

Benefits of Flexible Working

Flexible working doesn’t just benefit employees, it makes good business sense too.

For Employees:

  • Better work-life balance
  • Reduced commuting time and costs
  • Increased autonomy and job satisfaction
  • Improved mental and physical well-being

For Employers:

  • Higher productivity
  • Improved employee retention
  • Access to a wider talent pool
  • Reduced office space and overheads
  • Stronger employer branding

Flexible Working in the UAE: What’s Changing?

The UAE has made major strides in encouraging flexible work models especially in the past few years.

Key developments:

  • In 2023, the UAE approved new labour law reforms allowing private sector employees more flexibility in working hours and location.
  • Remote work visas have been introduced, allowing global professionals to live in the UAE while working for overseas employers.
  • Many UAE employers now offer hybrid models, especially in finance, tech, consulting, and creative industries.

Flexible working is no longer a “Western trend” it’s actively being embraced across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and beyond.

What HR Teams Should Know

If you're in HR or leadership, implementing flexible working policies involves more than just telling people they can “work from home.” Here’s what to consider:

Set Clear Expectations

Define core hours (e.g. 11am–3pm availability)

Clarify how productivity will be tracked

Update Contracts and Policies

Reflect flexible options in offer letters and handbooks

Ensure compliance with UAE Labour Law

Prioritize Communication

Use digital tools to stay connected

Encourage regular check-ins and feedback

Offer Support

Provide equipment for remote work (laptops, software)

Offer training for managing remote/hybrid teams

Challenges of Flexible Working

While flexible work has many benefits, it also comes with challenges:

  • Difficulty in maintaining team culture
  • Risk of blurred lines between work and personal life
  • Communication gaps if teams are spread across time zones
  • Performance tracking without micromanagement

These can be addressed with strong leadership, the right tools, and clear boundaries.

Final Thoughts

Flexible working isn’t just a perk, it’s a powerful tool to attract top talent, build trust, and future-proof your business. Whether you’re an HR leader planning policy updates or an employee exploring options, understanding how flexible working works and how it’s evolving in the UAE is essential.

FAQs About Flexible Working

Is flexible working legal in the UAE?

Yes. The UAE Labour Law allows flexible and remote working arrangements, but they must be clearly agreed upon between employer and employee.

Can I request flexible working in the UAE?

Employees can request flexible working, but it’s subject to the employer’s approval and business needs.

Are flexible workers entitled to the same benefits?

Yes, unless they’re part-time or on different terms, all employees should receive fair treatment regardless of their working pattern.

Do flexible hours affect salary?

Not necessarily. Full-time employees working flexible hours typically earn the same salary as those on fixed schedules, unless their hours are reduced.


Table of Content

    Share this with your colleague