The United Arab Emirates has released a new report that highlights the benefits of remote work and hybrid policies for businesses and society. The white paper, titled Remote Work in the UAE, outlines how flexible work arrangements can boost productivity, inclusivity, and wellbeing while easing traffic congestion in cities.
The study makes the case for companies to consider remote work as part of their long-term planning. Although the government has not yet announced an official policy, the white paper shows a clear preference for enabling remote work in the future.
Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, wrote the preface to the report. In his introduction, he described the case for remote work as “compelling” and called for a proactive approach to hybrid policies.
The research found that combining office work with the option to work from home creates better outcomes for companies and employees alike. According to the report, hybrid models improve productivity, increase inclusivity, and support workforce wellbeing. Companies that adopt flexible work policies are also able to attract a wider talent pool, including candidates with caregiving responsibilities or those who live far from offices.
The findings are supported by survey data showing that nearly 46 percent of the UAE population already works from home in some capacity. Dubai’s international reputation as a hub for mobile professionals adds further weight. In the 2024 Savills Executive Nomad Index, Dubai ranked as the top global destination for executive nomads for the second year in a row.
The report also highlighted studies carried out by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai and the Dubai Government Human Resources Department in late 2024. These studies urged businesses to adopt remote policies to reduce congestion on roads and improve urban mobility.
International examples were also considered. The UAE white paper examined remote work policies in the USA, Portugal, Spain, Norway, Taiwan, and Turkey, showing how these countries introduced frameworks that supported flexibility while maintaining workforce performance.
Still, challenges remain. The report pointed to cultural and legislative barriers that could slow down the adoption of remote policies. Some businesses and government offices remain cautious, with skepticism about the value of remote work compared to traditional office settings. Concerns include the risk of reduced training opportunities, weaker team collaboration, and fewer chances for in-person mentorship in remote environments.
Despite these issues, the paper stressed that the opportunities far outweigh the drawbacks. It identified four key dimensions needed for successful hybrid or remote work: strong leadership within organizations, building an atmosphere of trust, providing the right skills and digital tools for employees, and establishing clear policies that protect worker rights.
The conclusion of the 38-page study was direct and optimistic. “The overall direction is clear: remote working is a much bigger opportunity than it is a threat,” the report stated. It called on governments and businesses to reimagine work in ways that foster productivity, balance, and inclusivity.
The UAE’s focus on remote work reflects wider global trends that accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Companies worldwide have tested hybrid models, and many have found them effective for both operations and employee wellbeing. By addressing challenges through training, digital infrastructure, and clear policy, the UAE aims to position itself as a leader in modern workforce development.
While there is no official policy mandating remote work yet, the release of this white paper signals a shift in direction. For businesses operating in the UAE, the message is clear: preparing for flexible and hybrid work arrangements is not just an option, but a strategy that could drive competitiveness and attract global talent in the years ahead.
