Across the UAE, a growing number of residents are advocating for the workday to begin as early as 6am. Many say that aligning work hours with their natural morning routines, such as waking for Fajr prayer or exercising, would allow them to finish work earlier in the day. This shift could offer more time for rest, errands, and family, while also potentially boosting productivity and reducing screen fatigue, particularly during the scorching summer months.
Early Risers Want to Finish Early
For Dubai resident Amina Al Hammadi, the day starts well before sunrise. Speaking to local news outlet Khaleej Times, she said that she wakes up for the Fajr prayer at around 4:03am.“I wake up for Fajr around 4.03am these days,” Amina said. “By the time I’m done with my prayer and breakfast, I’m wide awake and ready. But I still have to wait two, sometimes three hours before work starts. I wish I could just get going at 6am and finish early.”Amina believes that starting soon after Fajr prayer would enable her to complete her workday by 2pm, freeing up the rest of the afternoon for family time, rest, or errands. She pointed out that this schedule would be especially beneficial in the summer months, when the heat can be draining by midday.“In the summer, especially, the heat drains you by the afternoon. It would be so much better if we’re done by then,” she added.Similarly, Alex, an American expat working in sales in Dubai, starts his day with a run at 5am followed by a gym session. He shared with KT:“By 6am I’m fully alert, I’ve had my workout, my coffee, and I feel most productive. But I waste so much of that energy waiting for the workday to start. I’d rather finish by 2pm or 3pm and then have time for lunch, maybe a nap, and enjoy the evening.”Alex also noted the impact on screen fatigue. “In sales, you’re constantly emailing or on Zoom. If I can frontload all that in the morning and get it over with, I’ll be sharper and less burned out.”
Experts Weigh In: Health and Productivity Benefits
While some UAE companies have adopted flexible schedules, a standard early start remains uncommon. Dr. Reem Al Marzouqi, a Dubai-based occupational health specialist, explained the scientific benefits of matching work hours with natural energy peaks.“People who wake up early tend to have higher cortisol levels in the morning, which boosts alertness and focus,” Dr. Al Marzouqi told KT. “Starting the workday earlier taps into that natural hormonal peak. Over time, this can enhance productivity and reduce dependence on stimulants like caffeine.”She also emphasized how earlier work hours can protect employees from the extreme heat typical of UAE summers.“Finishing by early afternoon means avoiding peak heat exposure, especially for those who commute or work in the field. It also opens up more usable daylight hours for rest, family or physical activity,” she explained.From a psychological standpoint, Dr. Al Marzouqi said earlier finishing times could reduce burnout caused by extended screen time late into the evening.“Working until 6pm or 7pm, then spending the evening on phones or laptops, affects circadian rhythms. Earlier wrap-up times give people a natural pause and allow their brains to disconnect before bed,” she said.
Flexibility Is Key
Despite the benefits, Dr. Al Marzouqi cautioned that early starts are not a one-size-fits-all solution.“Some people are wired differently. For night owls, pushing a 6am start might backfire and increase fatigue. Flexibility is key, and employers should consider offering multiple shift options where possible,” she advised.She suggested companies experiment with pilot programs to find the best fit for both employees and business operations.“Even something simple like a 6am to 2pm trial twice a week can help identify what works best for both employee energy levels and business needs,” she concluded.
