4 major Dubai changes in July: New law, reduced hours and visa-free travel

Time Out Dubai

4 hours ago

Dubai is constantly changing and it's no surprise that you can sometimes miss an update or two.
Major Dubai changes are announced all the time, often a long time in advance, which is why we've rounded up the biggest changes to note that will arrive in July.
In July, we'll enjoy a public holiday, some will see the benefit of a four-day working week, and there's even a brand-new law coming into play.
Dubai changes in July
Dubai's four-day working week begins (for some)
Dubai will introduce a four-day working week and reduced hours for public sector workers from Tuesday July 1.
It follows a successful initial trial scheme first introduced in 2024 for those working for government entities.
Running until Friday September 12 2025, the scheme is designed to allow employees to have a greater work-life balance during the hotter months.
You can read the full story here.
A new public health law is coming into force
Rolling out in July, there is a new public health law that was issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE back in April.
Law No. (5) of 2025 on Public Health in Dubai seeks to minimise health risks by stopping the spread of illnesses and putting restrictions on travel for those with confirmed communicable diseases.
The new law states that any travellers must adhere to official health protocols, provide requested information at Dubai's entry points and report any suspected or confirmed communicable diseases.
Anyone who is infected or suspected of having a communicable disease must avoid contact that could spread their illness. The new law states that you must refrain from travelling or moving, except to healthcare facilities, without the approval of the Dubai Health Authority.
You can find further information on the new law here.
Travel to Armenia will be visa-free for UAE residents
If you're looking for a last-minute summer holiday from Dubai, then you're going to want to know about the latest country to announce visa-free travel for UAE residents.
Starting from Tuesday July 1, just after the Islamic New Year holiday, people living in Dubai and the other emirates can travel to Armenia without a visa.
Previously only visa-free for UAE nationals, the latest announcement means that everyone living in the United Arab Emirates is able to holiday in Armenia hassle-free.
You can travel for up to 90 days within any 180-day period – no paperwork, no visa-on-arrival, just pack and go. To qualify, your UAE residency must be valid for at least six months from your arrival date.
Read the full story here.
Dubai's school summer holidays will begin
Officially wrapping up right at the end of June, July will see the school holidays properly begin for families across the emirate.
For private schools, the school holidays will begin on Friday June 27 with a new term beginning on Monday August 25.
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For private schools, the summer break will begin on Monday June 30, and resume on Monday August 25.
For all the school holiday dates to know, read the full story here.
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