Smile, you're in Sharjah: Employees celebrate world-first 3-day weekend

Government employees across Sharjah welcomed the three-day weekend, saying it will boost family stability and work productivity.

On Thursday, Sharjah became the first Arab city to implement the four-day workweek, with Friday, Saturday and Sunday off.

From January, government employees will work from 7:30am to 3:30am from Monday to Thursday.

Employees stressed that the new decision boosts their morale as they gear up for a new year with determination to upskill and contribute more to the Sharjah’s development.

Mohammed Al Kaabi, Sharjah Municipality

Sharjah’s slogan is "Smile, you’re in Sharjah", and the emirate keeps delivering on that promise. We start the new year of 2022 on a high note, with a move that reflects the emirate’s adaptability to the post-COVID-19 world with special focus on family stability and social wellbeing. The three-day weekend will encourage us to give our best at work and become achievers in our field. Working for four days will also make us less inclined to apply for leaves throughout the year as we will get enough rest and time to do other activities that improve our wellbeing.

Naamah Samir Al Naji, Sharjah Book Authority

I was beyond excited to receive the news. The new decision is part of the constant pioneering initiatives we see in Sharjah as a family-friendly city. As a mother of two, the 3-day weekend will give me more time to spend with my children, which will enhance my wellbeing and reflect positively on my work performance. It also preserves the sanctity of Friday as a family day, while giving us an extra day off to return to work in a positive spirit.

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sherouk@khaleejtimes.com