e& Telecom Company Introduces a Four-Day Workweek for Employees in the UAE
In a pioneering move, the UAE's leading telecom company, e&, has embraced a four-day working week for select employees, aiming to enhance workplace flexibility and align with global calls for innovative work structures.
Embracing Change for Employee Well-Being
Understanding the critical relationship that exists between overall productivity, creativity, and employee engagement, e& has launched a pilot program in three departments in the United Arab Emirates.
This bold step positions e& as the first technology company to respond to the global demand for flexible workplace policies.
A Strategic Approach to Workplace Innovations
By fostering an environment where employees feel valued, have growth opportunities, and can balance work and personal life effectively, e& aims to lead not only in the technology sector but also in the broader business landscape of the region.
Dena Almansoori, Group Chief Human Resources Officer at e&, emphasizes the importance of challenging norms and adapting work policies to create a more efficient, productive, and fulfilling environment.
Weekend Freedom for Opted-In Employees
Workers who opt to take part in the trial will have a rejuvenating three-day weekend, which runs from Friday to Sunday. Employees at e& currently work remotely a couple days a week, so this move fits perfectly with their current hybrid workplace style.
Notably, Fridays at e&, dubbed "Green Fridays," are devoted to sustainability initiatives, lowering carbon emissions from transportation and office energy use.
WEF-Backed Benefits and Sustainability Focus
Citing research from the World Economic Forum (WEF), the four-day workweek model has demonstrated improvements in employee well-being and productivity while significantly contributing to environmental goals by reducing commuting time and associated carbon emissions.
Almansoori underlines e&'s commitment to well-being, sustainability, and achieving net-zero emissions in scopes 1 and 2 by 2030.
Government Alignment and Success Stories
The introduction of this pilot aligns with the UAE Federal Government's recent endorsement of a four-day workweek for government employees. This move echoes the success observed in Sharjah, where a 90% increase in job performance, happiness, and mental health was reported following the implementation of a four-day workweek in 2022.
In this bold leap towards a more flexible and employee-centric work environment, e& sets a precedent for other companies in the region and beyond, showcasing the potential benefits of embracing innovative work structures.
