Dubai suggests expanding remote work policies to reduce traffic issues

Dubai is considering implementing measures to improve traffic efficiency by promoting remote work and flexible working hours across both public and private sectors. These measures aim to reduce traffic congestion while ensuring a balance between business productivity and the overall quality of life for workers.

The proposed changes stem from the findings of two surveys conducted by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and the Dubai Government Human Resources (DGHR) Department. These surveys assessed the current implementation of remote work and flexible working hours in the workplace, with a focus on understanding how such policies could help address traffic challenges.

The study revealed that introducing flexible working hours with a two-hour window for starting the workday, as well as offering employees the option to work remotely up to four or five days a month, could significantly reduce peak-hour traffic. Specifically, the research estimates that adopting these policies could decrease morning rush hour travel times by as much as 30 percent. For instance, if 20 percent of employees worked remotely, it could reduce traffic on major roads like Sheikh Zayed Road by 9.8 percent and on Al Khail Road by 8.4 percent.

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To gather insights, the first survey involved 644 companies representing more than 320,000 employees, while the second surveyed 12,000 private sector employees. The results show that 32 percent of private sector companies currently offer remote work options, while 58 percent are open to expanding such policies. Additionally, 31 percent of companies have already adopted flexible working hours, with 66 percent of those without such policies expressing interest in implementing them in the future.

The findings were discussed in a meeting between Mattar Al Tayer, Commissioner General for the Infrastructure, Urban Planning, and Well-Being Pillar, and Abdulla Ali bin Zayed Al Falasi, Director-General of DGHR. The two officials explored how these practices could be promoted moving forward. Al Tayer emphasized that remote work and flexible working hours are key elements in managing traffic demand and improving the integration of Dubai's transport system. These policies not only aim to reduce demand during peak times but also support the adoption of sustainable transport options.

Other measures being explored include expanding restrictions on truck movements, creating more dedicated lanes for buses and taxis, and enhancing public transportation options for short trips. The goal is to make public transport more attractive, thereby reducing the reliance on private vehicles.

The shift towards flexible working hours has already shown positive results within Dubai's government. Since the introduction of remote work in 2020, around 80 percent of government entities now allow employees to work remotely for two days each week. Feedback from employees has been overwhelmingly positive, with 87 percent reporting that flexible hours align with their personal needs. Additionally, 89.4 percent of employees feel that flexible hours boost their productivity. 

In terms of remote work, 80.4 percent of government employees believe their productivity is on par with office work when working from home. Furthermore, 90 percent of government employees report no issues with communication or connectivity while working remotely, highlighting the feasibility of remote work in Dubai's government sector.

These findings support the idea that flexible working arrangements and remote work can help reduce traffic congestion while promoting a more balanced work-life environment for employees. As Dubai continues to expand its infrastructure and transportation systems, these initiatives may play a vital role in alleviating traffic challenges and improving overall city efficiency.