Civil Service Commission to Introduce Flexible Working Hours for Public Sector

The Civil Service Commission has announced plans to introduce greater flexibility in the working hours of public sector employees, as part of efforts to enhance workplace conditions and strengthen service delivery across the country.

The initiative will apply to a workforce of more than 31,000 employees who provide essential state services nationwide. The commission stated that the proposed changes are aimed at creating a safer and more accommodating working environment, while improving overall productivity within the civil service.

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Commission President Mohamed Mujuthaz said new protocols are being developed to address challenges associated with rigid working schedules. He noted that strict attendance requirements can, at times, affect efficiency and staff morale. The commission intends to introduce greater flexibility in attendance times to ease difficulties faced by employees due to various personal and professional circumstances.

The reforms, which are being developed in response to requests from civil servants, will include guidelines allowing remote work where operationally feasible. The commission also plans to introduce a “buffer time” system later this year to reduce penalties for minor delays in arrival.

In addition, attention is being given to employees with caregiving responsibilities. Frameworks are being drafted to provide support for guardians of persons with disabilities, in line with directives issued by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.

The government is also pursuing legislative amendments to expand support for working mothers. Under current regulations, employees are entitled to six months of maternity leave and flexible working arrangements until a child reaches one year of age. The proposed amendments would extend these accommodations until the child turns two.