According to Al Madina, a Saudi newspaper, the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MoHRSD) is considering implementing a three-day weekend in the job sector.
This is expected to pique the interest of both the public and private sectors, with many people anticipating the positive effects of work-life balance.
Although no official announcement has been made, the move will be consistent with global trends towards flexible working hours.
Four-Day Workweek in UAE
Sharjah has already implemented a four-day workweek, which has resulted in improved worker performance. Reduced workdays have increased employee productivity by 88%, attendance by 74%, job satisfaction by 90%, and mental health by 87%, according to the Sharjah Executive Council.
These findings demonstrate the initiative’s success in improving various aspects of work-life balance for employees. This system is currently only in use at public institutions, but it is expected to be implemented throughout the UAE in the near future.
Monday-Thursday, employees in the public sector must work from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., which is approximately 90 minutes longer than before.
Four-Day Workweek Trial in the UK
In the United Kingdom, a comprehensive pilot study of a four-day workweek was recently conducted. The policy was maintained by 92% of the participating employers, or 56 out of 61.
The study, conducted by Autonomy, a British research organisation, was the largest of its kind in the world, involving over 2,900 workers from various industries.
