As the new academic year 2025–2026 begins, the UAE has introduced flexible work timings for government employees to support parents during the school reopening period. The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) confirmed on Wednesday, August 20, that the initiative is part of its annual “Back to School” policy, ensuring families can smoothly transition while maintaining service efficiency.
Background
The “Back to School” policy, implemented in previous years as well, is designed to help parents balance their professional duties with family responsibilities during the start of the academic term.
This reflects the UAE’s commitment to fostering a supportive, family-friendly work environment while safeguarding productivity across federal entities.
Key Highlights
-
Flexible timings for parents on the first day of school.
-
Nursery and kindergarten parents get flexibility for the first week.
-
Up to three hours allowed for school events during the year.
-
Policy accounts for varying school curricula start dates.
-
Enhances family-work balance without affecting productivity.
Key Provisions of the Policy
-
First Day Flexibility
Parents may adjust arrival and departure times, with a total of up to three hours allowed to accompany children to school.
-
Nursery & Kindergarten Parents
Employees with young children are granted flexibility for the entire first week of school, up to three hours per day, to adapt to new schedules.
-
Parent-Teacher Engagements
Employees may take up to three hours during the year to attend parent-teacher meetings, graduation ceremonies, or other school-related events.
-
Curriculum Considerations
Federal entities are advised to account for differences in school start dates across curricula.
Impact on UAE Community
This initiative highlights the UAE’s forward-thinking approach to workplace policies, ensuring parents have the necessary support during critical family moments. By allowing flexibility without disrupting workflow, the move strengthens both employee satisfaction and organizational efficiency.
Industry & Community Reactions
Education experts and HR professionals have welcomed the initiative, noting that it eases the stress of the academic transition for families while maintaining the UAE’s reputation as a leader in employee well-being. Many parents expressed appreciation for the continued recognition of family priorities in the workplace.
What’s Next
The policy is expected to continue annually, reinforcing the UAE’s long-term vision of work-life balance and family-first values. This initiative also sets an example for other sectors to adopt similar employee-friendly measures, further enhancing the country’s global image as a supportive and progressive nation.
FAQs
Q: When does the policy apply?
Ans: It applies at the start of the academic year 2025–2026 and for key school-related events throughout the year.
Q: Who benefits from the policy?
Ans: Government employees who are parents of school-going children, including nursery and kindergarten students.
Q: How much flexibility is allowed?
Ans: Up to three hours on the first day of school, and for parents of younger children, up to three hours daily during the first week.
Q: Will services be affected?
Ans: No, the flexibility is designed to ensure smooth workflow while supporting families.
Q: Is this a one-time initiative?
Ans: No, it has been implemented in previous years and continues as part of the UAE’s family-supportive work environment strategy.
The UAE’s flexible work policy during school reopening is a powerful demonstration of its family-first approach. By enabling parents to balance professional and personal responsibilities, the nation continues to build a progressive, inclusive, and community-oriented future.
