What began in 2023 as a temporary traffic-relief measure during the Holy Month of Ramadhan has evolved into a policy shift — one that is reshaping work culture, easing congestion, and redefining daily life for thousands of employees across the Sultanate of Oman.
Flexible working hours and remote work options, first introduced to reduce peak-hour gridlock, have proven so effective that authorities have institutionalised the system within the state’s administrative framework.
Earlier, heavy congestion typically plagued Sultan Qaboos Street and the Muscat Expressway during the morning and afternoon rushes.
By breaking away from the traditional "9 am to 2 pm" rush that used to paralyze areas like Al Khoud and Rusayl, the authorities have found a way to make the daily commute significantly less stressful for everyone.
By staggering start times and enabling remote work, authorities effectively dispersed peak traffic volumes, resulting in smoother flows and reduced pressure on infrastructure.
For employees in the state administrative apparatus, the official workday is now designed around four distinct windows to stagger the flow of cars.
Depending on the nature of their department, staff may start as early as 7 am and finish at 12 pm, or choose from other slots: 8 am to 1 pm, 9 am to 2 pm, or a later 10 am to 3 pm shift.
Many employees — particularly women — report improved work-life balance.
Earlier return times have allowed families to prepare for Iftar without the stress and fatigue of prolonged commutes.
The measure has also reduced exposure to road incidents during peak hours, improving overall commuter safety.
Remote work
Department heads also have the authority to grant remote work to those whose roles allow it.
At least 50 percent of a department’s staff must be physically present at the office to ensure that government services are not affected.
Meanwhile, the private sector maintains its own protections for Muslim workers, capping the workday at six hours or a total of 30 hours per week.
To further clear the path, the Royal Oman Police continues to play a vital role by restricting truck movements on major roads on Thursdays and Saturdays.
By combining these logistical shifts with a bit of modern flexibility, the goal is to reduce the "skirmishes" and minor accidents that happen when everyone is in a hurry, allowing the community to focus more on the spirit of the month and less on the brake lights in front of them.
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