The UAE Labour Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021) recognises more ways of working than full-time office hours: part-time, flexible hours, remote work and job sharing are all lawful work patterns. It’s one of the most common questions on our HR advice line, usually from a manager with a request on their desk and a team rota that won’t bend.
Unlike in some countries, employees have no statutory right to demand flexible working. But how you handle the request still matters, because a badly handled refusal can turn into a complaint to the Ministry, or a discrimination claim.
The rules in brief
- Any change to hours, place of work or pattern should be agreed in writing and reflected in the employment contract, or the DIFC equivalent.
- Normal working hours are capped at eight a day and 48 a week, and the cap applies at home as much as in the office.
- In Ramadan, private-sector working hours are usually reduced by two hours a day, whatever pattern someone works.
- Remote workers still need a valid UAE residence visa and work permit, sponsored by you or another permitted sponsor.
- The Labour Law forbids discrimination on grounds including sex, religion, nationality and disability, and protects employees during pregnancy and maternity leave.
Talk before you decide
A conversation doesn’t need to be formal, but it should be real. Sit down with the employee, understand what they’re asking for and why, and explore alternatives. A four-day compressed week might not work; an earlier finish two days a week during the school term might.
The best outcome is often neither yes nor no, but a trial period with a date to review it.
Write it down
Whatever you decide, confirm it in writing with the reason. If you agree, set out the hours, where the work is done, how you’ll keep in touch and how either side can end the arrangement. If you refuse, explain the business reason plainly.
Watch for discrimination
Refusing a request from a mother returning from maternity leave, or from someone with a disability, needs particular care. If in doubt, ring us before you send the letter. Clients on our HR advice line can call as often as they need for AED 1,500 a month plus VAT.
