4-day workweek success sparks conversation on productivity at DCDF

The panel included Her Excellency Dr. Muhadditha Yahya Al Hashimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Private Education Authority; Charlotte Lockhart, Founder of 4 Day Week Global; and Anne-Marie Lister, Independent People Consultant and Chief People Officer. The session was moderated by Mahmoud Bartawi.

To highlight the success of the reduced workweek in Sharjah, Al Hashimi shared the success story of the Emirate’s private education sector. She revealed that a survey conducted by the Sharjah Private Education Authority in February 2023, which went to almost 40,000 parents and employees, highlighted that parents and teachers alike experienced heightened satisfaction, happiness, and overall well-being with the adoption of a more flexible schedule. Parents noted improvements in their children's educational experience, while teachers reported more manageable workloads, contributing to a better work-life balance.

“Sharjah has around 200,000 students that go to private schools, with 150 private schools teaching 10 different curriculums,” she said. “When we did the survey, the results were very positive. Schools have reported improvements in student engagement, less absenteeism and higher academic achievement. Parents also observed reduced behavioural problems. The survey found that student attendance was 95% higher, 92% of parents agreed that their children’s motivation was higher, and 91% of teachers said their work-life balance improved. Also, 87% of teachers reported that the shorter workweek has given them time to go to the gym.”

Enhancing employee engagement
The global workforce is undergoing a significant shift as the conversation around a reduced work week continues to gain traction. Lockhart shared: “Companies experimenting with a four-day workweek, typically around 32 hours, have seen an average increase in productivity of 20%. Data collected from trials in over 20 countries consistently support these findings, demonstrating that not only is productivity maintained, but employee well-being and job satisfaction improve as well.”

Furthermore, she highlighted employee happiness and engagement are directly linked to a more collaborative work environment. 

Lister stressed that the rationale behind the four-day workweek is rooted in operational efficiency. She said: “Over time, many daily tasks become routine, yet not all contribute meaningfully to an organisation’s goals. By identifying and eliminating non-essential activities, organisations can optimise productivity without increasing workloads. This approach not only frees up time for employees but also leads to more focused efforts.”

She said that the success of operational efficiency lies in a bottom-up approach, where those closest to the work processes contribute their insights. Traditional top-down mandates often overlook the nuances of daily tasks. 

The panellists agreed that the data gathered sends a clear message. When companies prioritise their employees' well-being through initiatives such as adopting a four-day workweek, they create a cycle that benefits both the individual and the organisation. As more companies explore this model, the potential for lasting social and economic benefits continues to grow, Lockhart concluded.

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, the Department of Statistics and Community Development (DSCD) is hosting the forum on October 9 and 10 at the Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre in Sharjah. The event marks a first for the region, as it brings together experts to highlight the power that data has in turning sustainable social development plans into tangible realities. The forum is being organised in collaboration with the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA), the GCC Statistical Centre, and various federal, regional, and international entities.