Muscat – Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection and devotion. Muslims fast from dawn to dusk and for many, managing work commitments alongside religious obligations can be challenging.

To help address these challenges, some employers are offering flexible working hours this Ramadan – the first time ever – allowing their employees to adjust their schedule and accommodate their religious commitments. In addition, flexible working hours also help avoid traffic jams.

Should flexible working hours be the norm throughout the year to reduce traffic congestion? What could be the other advantages of this? Here is what Muscat Daily readers said on the matter –

Tariq Balushi
Filmmaker
I agree that there should be more flexible hours around the year. Flexible working hours allow employees to balance their personal and professional commitments more effectively, enabling them to manage their time and energy more efficiently. This motivates me, too, to work better and harder.

Salim Ahmed al Busaidi
Translator
When employees have more control over their work schedules, they are often more motivated and productive, as they can work during their most productive hours. This idea can also help reduce stress at work, at home and while shopping. With more control over their work schedules, employees can also avoid rush hour traffic and long commutes. I support the idea.

Sultan al Rawahi
Private sector employee
The decision this year is very important. It helps me commute from home in Seeb to office in Ruwi in less than half an hour compared to over an hour before the decision was implemented. I hope flexible working hours continue throughout the year because it will reduce traffic congestion in Muscat.

Salim Yahya
Businessman
I am for the proposal and feel that the best thing that will happen will be enhanced job satisfaction for employees. Reports have indeed shown that employees who have flexible working hours often report higher levels of job satisfaction, as they feel more respected by their employers. Also, this will help employers attract diverse talent and create a better company.

Toufiq Ahmed
Private sector employee
I support the idea as flexible work hours can benefit both employees and employers by improving work-life balance, increasing productivity, reducing stress, enhancing job satisfaction, and promoting diversity and inclusion. Many countries have tried and tested it and it is indeed a success.