For ages, we have had a five-day workweek culture. Industries and businesses across the world operate similarly. Employees, workers, wage workers, and employers have been accustomed to working five days a week. It has been going on for a long time and, we do not even remember its origin. Almost all business houses run five days a week allowing two days off for its workforce. But with technological advancement, the work is getting done at a faster pace. Therefore, there is no need to work for five days when the same work can be done in four. Many countries in the West have already accepted the four-day workweek culture.
Across Europe, this culture is well-liked, and large corporate houses like Unilever, Microsoft are also promoting the same. Studies have shown that working for a lesser hour is beneficial for both company and the employee. Recently, UAE has taken a step in the same direction. In December 2021, UAE announced that it will shift to four and a half working days. It will be effective from January 2022. It will allow two and half days of a break for the workers. This change is announced by the government, is for public industries and institutions. It means that employees of the public sector will enjoy the benefits of the new policy. There are multiple benefits and challenges that this new era brings in front of the UAE.
Advantages Of Having A Four-Day Workweek
There are several advantages of working 32 hours in a week than 40. Lesser working hours lead to higher productivity and efficiency. Many studies and practical experiments around the world have shown similar results. Working four days a week is not a new concept, but it has gained popularity amid covid-19. Pandemic has introduced us to working through screens and from hour homes. It has also given us a chance to experiment with the potential new working policy.
To know more about the impact of a four-day workweek, you can read The 4 Day Week.
1. Increased Level Of Productivity:
When employees feel fewer hours at work, it makes them happier and more satisfied. It helps them to focus more on work and organizational goals. A proper work-life balance allows employees to manage the job properly without distractions.
2. Reduction In The Costs:
Opening the workplace for four days instead of five will automatically reduce the cost. Companies will have to invest less in the operating cost of the business. It will reduce the transportation cost and the cost of extra expenses during breaks. It will also reduce the carbon footprint, benefiting the environment.
3. Better Employee Health:
Employees will feel happier and less stressed. It will reflect on their mental and physical health. Spending more quality time during weekends will make them more energetic. Happier and healthier employees mean fewer health leaves and more work. When employees will ask for fewer leaves, it will be advantageous to the organization.
4. Improved Retention Of The Employees:
Allowing flexible working patterns will lead to an increase in employee retention numbers. Offering workers more hours to relax makes them feel motivated. They are more focused and stay in the organization for long. It creates a harmonious relationship between the employer and the employee.
5. Better Working Environment:
The overall environment of the organization is affected by the behavior of the workforce. Taking care of the needs of the employees will create a calmer working environment. It is necessary for the success of any company in the long run.
Challenges Of A Four-Day Workweek
Despite the several benefits of a four-day workweek, UAE has to face the biggest challenge. The new policy is for the public sector employees and, not for the private companies. However, a change like this will impact the private sector as well. Private companies have to make changes in their current working pattern to align it with the government policy. The new policy will impact the private sector, business leaders. They have to adapt their policies keeping in mind the customer orders and the sales. Companies have shown a positive response to this new policy. The majority of them are ready to adapt to a four-day workweek issuing hybrid models and flexible working hours.
There are concerns regarding the increase in the number of hours of workdays. With only four days to work, many have raised questions regarding the increase in hours. Further, reduction in remuneration due to fewer working hours is also a concern. But no basis supports such claims.
Another challenge this government policy may face is that not all industries can follow it. Some businesses and professions require employee presence 24x7. If the workdays are reduced, it will lead to staff shortages or, longer working hours. In this case, the new policy will be futile. The cost of paying for overtime and operating the workplace for more hours will incur more costs.
Conclusion
UAE has taken an initiative to align the global trends of working. There are reservations whenever a new policy is being introduced. Execution and implementation is always a matter of time to bring a positive change. Employees and business houses have shown their full support to this decision of the government. There are short-term challenges but, the overall impact of the four-day workweek policy will be positive in the long run.
It will improve employee productivity, improve physical and mental health, and less operating costs for the companies. This new policy is welcomed by the employees and will surely yield results in the future. Having two and a half days of weekend is a blessing for all the employees.
If you want to read something interesting, go for The Seven Day Weekend by Ricardo Semler. The Japanese government has recommended issuing a four-day workweek as a nationwide policy. Countries in Europe have made efforts to implement the same. Newzealand and India may also announce the four-day workweek policy in the coming future.
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