The UAE will now start its weekends on Friday afternoon and continue through Sunday.

In a significant change to a traditional policy observed by many Islamic nations, the UAE government announced via Twitter on Dec. 7 that weekends will commence on Friday afternoon starting next year.

Dubai. (Photo credit: Buena Vista Images/Getty Images)

Beginning Jan. 1, 2022, the UAE will implement a 4.5-day work week for all federal employees, promoting longer weekends to enhance productivity and work-life balance.

In most of the Gulf Cooperation Council nations, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Bahrain, the weekend consists of Friday and Saturday. This change by the UAE diverges from the regional practice of observing a midday prayer on Friday, reflecting its predominantly Muslim population.

The UAE will now schedule Friday sermons and prayers to take place after 1:15 p.m. year-round.

For travelers, the extended weekend provides more opportunities to indulge in popular activities like the famous Friday brunch, which the UAE is renowned for. It remains to be seen if brunching will be possible on both Fridays and Saturdays.

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