Friday Brunch, one of Dubai and the UAE’s most beloved pastimes, is coming to an end on January 1, 2022.
The UAE will be switching to a Saturday Sunday weekend with the public sector getting a four-and-a-half day work week, according to an announcement from the UAE government.
That means that Friday will now be a half day for the public sector, with no time for brunch to be had.
RIP Friday Brunch in Dubai. Thank you for the many, many good days.
Ok, are we done mourning? Now for the good news.
The Dubai Saturday Brunch is set to become the UAE’s next time-honoured tradition.
It may not have the ring to it that “Friday Brunch” has, but once we get used to a couple extra syllables, surely the food and beverage deals, lavish set ups, live music and all that the world has come to expect from the country’s legendary brunches will be moved.
Soon, the world will hear of Dubai Saturday Brunch. And it will be good.
The New system applies to all federal government entities. There has been no official announcement for the private sector, but it is expected to come soon.
The official government working hours are now from Monday to Thursday from 7:30 am to 3:30 am, and Friday being a 4.5 hour working day from 7:30 am to 12:00 pm.
Friday sermons and prayers will be held after 1:15 pm all year long in the UAE, said the announcement.
“Longer weekends are to boost productivity and improve work-life balance,” said the announcement.
Image from Secret Garden Brunch at Flair 5, Ritz Carlton DIFC