Some employees in UAE call on firms to allow remote work amid heavy rains

[Editor's Note: Follow Khaleej Times live blog for the latest updates as the UAE deals with heavy rains and unstable weather conditions.]

As heavy rains sweep the UAE, workers are urging their employers to allow them to work from home, especially those in roles that doesn’t require physical attendance. For many, the daily commute during a storm is not just an inconvenience; it is a risk they say they should not have to take.

Many workers say that direct managers often override flexible work arrangements and treat remote work as a sign of poor commitment, even when roads are dangerous and conditions make commuting a risk.

This has prompted a broader discussion among the workforce, with differing perspectives on how best to balance safety concerns with operational needs during severe weather conditions.

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Many employees said that commuting during heavy rains and flooded streets can be challenging, highlighting both practical difficulties and added stress, particularly when tasks could be carried out remotely.

"The government has thankfully announced the adoption of remote work or flexible hours for jobs that allow it, to preserve everyone’s safety during the current weather conditions. Unfortunately, some private sector entities and institutions still ask employees to attend physically, despite the fact that roads in some areas are flooded and have become dangerous for drivers," said AR, an employee.

AR emphasised that insisting on physical attendance when work can be done remotely without affecting operations is baffling. “This decision not only puts the employee under physical and psychological pressure, but it may also expose them to dangerous situations that threaten their safety on the road. We hope the concerned authorities highlight this issue and appeal to private companies to prioritise employee safety, humanity, and responsibility above all else.”

MG echoed this sentiment, noting that remote work is preferable in the current circumstances. “It saves effort and time, and increases productivity without any disruption caused by the current conditions,” she said. 

However, she pointed out a critical flaw in the implementation, “The management and human resources departments send out circulars for remote work, but direct managers specifically refuse it and associate it with negligence.”

MG believes that if remote work does not hinder productivity, it should be embraced. “If the government mandates it and links it to the employee's achievement rate, then institutions should be obligated to implement it without discussion.”

Balancing work and safety

SA highlighted the broader impact of forcing employees to commute during bad weather. “It is the appropriate decision under the current circumstances because it preserves the safety of employees and reduces risks, while ensuring business continuity without disruption,” she explained. 

She added, “Especially for entities whose nature of work allows remote work, it reduces traffic on the streets so that security forces can focus on specific problems. When everyone commutes, it becomes chaotic and puts immense pressure on the police, ambulance services, and others.”

SA noted that while remote work has become an essential option rather than a luxury in these conditions, its implementation has been inconsistent.

"Some entities were flexible and quick to implement it, while others were delayed or conservative due to the nature of their work or poor equipment. This affected people, especially in the current situation — just look at the streets, and you’ll know. It put pressure on the police to help people, and of course, people were affected by accidents or their cars breaking down on the road.”

Call for permanent policies

For some employees, the benefits of remote work extend beyond emergencies. HA, who works in a bank, relies primarily on email and occasional phone calls for her job. She advocates for a more permanent shift in work culture.

“From my point of view, the remote work system is very important because of its positive impact on increasing productivity and providing a more comfortable work environment,” she said. “It also relieves the stress caused by daily traffic congestion while commuting to and from work.”

She believes that implementing remote work for one or two days a week could make a significant difference. “It gives the employee a better work-life balance and increases their sense of appreciation, which positively reflects on their performance, creativity, and commitment at work. Remote work is not just about comfort; it is also a true appreciation of the employee’s effort and time, especially with long working hours.”

HA hopes that this system will be adopted as a general policy in all companies and entities for all employees whose nature of work allows it.

MHA agreed, viewing the application of remote work as an important and positive step. “It contributes to protecting employees and ensuring business continuity without disruption, and this applies to various emergency circumstances such as severe weather, rain, or health crises,” she said. 

She added, “To develop this system, it is important to set clear plans, define tasks accurately, provide effective communication technologies, and enhance employees’ awareness of how to manage work from home efficiently and with high quality.”