Following severe thunderstorms and heavy flooding in the UAE, the Council of Ministers has taken action to address the situation. On Friday, October 27, all federal government offices and schools will conduct work and classes remotely, as the inclement weather persists. However, this directive does not apply to federal employees whose physical presence is necessary for their work.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has urged private sector companies to adopt flexible work arrangements on this day, considering the ongoing weather conditions.
Prioritizing Health and Safety
In response to the adverse weather, MoHRE emphasized the importance of taking necessary measures to ensure that outdoor work, where essential, adheres to occupational health and safety requirements. Companies have been instructed to prioritize the health and safety of workers commuting to and from outdoor work locations.
Severe Thunderstorms Disrupt Normal Operations
The UAE experienced heavy rainfall and severe thunderstorms that reached their peak late on Thursday, prompting safety advisories from the police across the nation. Traffic bottlenecks were reported on several roads due to waterlogging.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, issued a directive on Thursday evening, mandating remote work for all government agencies in Dubai.
In response to the adverse weather conditions, numerous private schools in Dubai have informed parents that classes will be conducted online on Friday. Many schools had already suspended in-person classes earlier on Thursday, and various activities were either canceled or moved online due to the inclement weather.