FAHR UAE introduces flexible work guidelines; Here’s what it means

The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) has introduced new rules governing work in the federal government, effective February 2024, upon approval by the Cabinet.

These rules, known as the General Framework for Employment Patterns and Flexible Work Types, are based on the Human Resources Law in the Federal Government and its executive regulations.

UAE’s Flexible Work Policy aimed at attracting and retaining skilled talent

Upon approving the remote work policy in the UAE, FAHR emphasised that the framework supports the country's strategy for managing future work needs. It ensures that federal entities can continue their work smoothly during official hours, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness. The policy also helps attract and retain skilled individuals by offering flexibility through federal government HR regulations. 

FAHR UAE stated in an official notification, “This framework is a qualitative addition that enhances proactive measures, the ability to adapt, and the flexibility of Human Resources Legislation in the federal government. It supports the future directions of the UAE and the objectives of the "We the UAE 2031" vision, which focuses on building the most pioneering and superior system by enhancing government performance and developing the best business models contributing to achieving the best results, enhancing effectiveness, and building the best model for managing human resources and government competencies.”

Federal workers to adapt to new technologies under UAE Flexible Work Policy

The flexible work policy in the UAE's Federal Government will ensure that the workforce remains competitive in today's dynamic work environment, driven by advanced technology. Under these work guidelines, government workers will adapt to new and future trends, aligning with flexible work systems adopted globally.

Additionally, the framework serves as a guideline for applying employment patterns specified by the Human Resources Law, whether for full-time, part-time, temporary work, or flexible work arrangements. It also specifies the mechanisms for benefiting from flexible work types outlined in the executive regulations. The types of flexible work options that UAE federal authorities can grant to employees in exceptional cases and in accordance with approved conditions include 

• Remote work from within the country, 
• Remote work from outside the country, 
• Hybrid work, 
• Compressed work, etc.

HR leaders trained to implement UAE’s Flexible Work Policy

FAHR also organised a series of introductory workshops on the new framework and flexible work policy during February 2024. The virtual workshops, held under ‘Bayanati’ of FAHR UAE’s HRIS, were attended by HR managers and executives in ministries and federal offices to ensure proper application and achieve maximum benefit.