UAE Govt Allows Flexible Work Hours for Parents as Schools Reopen
As schools across the UAE prepare to welcome students for the new academic year 2025-2026, the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources has announced flexible work timings for government employees to make school drop-offs and pick-ups easier for parents.
According to the newly issued Back to School Policy, staff working in federal ministries and government entities will be allowed flexibility in arrival and departure on the first day of school. This will enable parents to accompany their children to and from school without affecting their work. The total flexibility granted will be up to three hours, and employees must coordinate this with their direct managers under their organization’s internal rules.
Special rules for nursery and kindergarten parents
For parents of children enrolled in nurseries and kindergartens, authorities have given extra consideration. During the first week of school, these parents may adjust their work hours by up to three hours each day so they can adapt to their children’s new drop-off and pick-up schedules.
Time off for school events
In addition, flexibility has also been extended throughout the academic year. Parents working in federal entities will be able to take up to three hours to attend parent-teacher meetings, graduation ceremonies, and other school-related events or activities involving their children.
School start date differences
The authority also noted that not all schools across the UAE follow the same calendar, as start dates vary depending on the curriculum. Government entities are advised to take this into account when granting flexible hours to parents.
Aim of the move
This initiative, which was also implemented last year, aims to support working parents while ensuring services and daily workflow in government offices are not disrupted.
Source: Federal Authority for Government Human Resources / Khaleej Times
