UAE issues nationwide call for flexible working as severe weather approaches

The UAE government has issued a widespread call for private sector companies to implement flexible working arrangements on Monday in response to anticipated severe weather conditions, including heavy rain, thunderstorms, and high winds, The National News reported.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation emphasised the need for employers to prioritise the safety of workers, urging necessary measures to comply with occupational health and safety requirements. 

The National Centre of Meteorology issued alerts, including a yellow alert for awareness of bad weather and an orange alert indicating hazardous weather events until noon on Tuesday.

The Knowledge and Human Development Authority in Dubai, responsible for private education regulation, recommended schools and universities to provide distance learning on Monday due to the unpredictable weather. Similar precautions were advised by the Sharjah Private Education Authority, enforcing remote learning across all educational institutions in the emirate.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, instructed government employees to work remotely on Monday, excluding roles that require on-site attendance. Abu Dhabi also announced the activation of remote work and distance learning for Monday, emphasising the exclusion of jobs requiring a physical presence at the workplace.

The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) held meetings to devise action plans for the anticipated severe weather, aiming to minimise disruption to the public and businesses and promote safety. NCEMA urged motorists to exercise extreme caution, avoid flooded and mountainous areas, and issued guidelines to enhance road safety.

The UAE's National Centre of Meteorology warned of heavy rain, wind, lightning, thunder, and hail, with temperatures expected to fall. A surface low-pressure system from the southwest, accompanied by humid south-easterly winds, contributes to adverse weather conditions. The NCM reported downpours in various regions, sharing footage of flooded roads on social media.

Abu Dhabi Police advised drivers to be cautious during rainfall, with variable speed limits displayed on electronic signboards. The force emphasised adherence to reduced speed limits during adverse weather, such as heavy rain and fog, to ensure road safety.