In Arab News, writer and Emirati civil servant Sara Al-Mulla makes the argument that we should use the reopening of businesses and government to reconsider how we work, and look at the 4-day week:

In a relatively short period, we have had to recreate our own little office spaces at home, host videoconferences, and be productive, while also maintaining a sense of normalcy for our families. However, this also means I am now free to optimally design my work day in a way that boosts my productivity and delivers stellar results, saving time on commuting and other distractions. This got me thinking: Can we devise a policy whereby employees can change their working hours to achieve performance goals, while also complementing their lifestyles?…

It might sound nonsensical to economists to reduce working hours without cutting salaries, especially after the pandemic has caused economic downturns across the world. However, epidemiologists are still cautioning people on the importance of social distancing measures in order to avoid a second wave of infections and deaths. By allowing employees to work remotely or at most four days a week, we could save lives, in addition to improving other aspects of our lives. A healthy work-life balance can help reduce stress levels and burnout, consequently leading to fewer chronic diseases, more relationship satisfaction, and improved well-being. Fewer hours will also allow primary carers to look after their children or elderly family members.