Three-day weekend proposal in Bahrain sparks mixed reactions

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The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

A parliamentary proposal for a three-day weekend system in Bahrain triggered immediate reactions on social media.

Scores of citizens and expatriates voiced their responses to the News of Bahrain with 60 percent of respondents suggesting that extending the weekend from two to three days would boost labour sector productivity and enhance people's work-life balance.

The proposal was put forth by a group of Bahraini MPs wanting to declare Friday, Saturday, and Sunday weekend holidays in the kingdom.

Thirty percent of respondents considered the proposal foolish and pointed out that if it was approved, only government employees would be the beneficiaries anyway, as the private sector would not support giving their employees three days off a week.

The remaining 10 percent of respondents seemed to be unsure, voicing recommendations and concerns regarding the new move.

Participants also suggested that a decision be taken only after proper research is done.

A few others argued that the government should concentrate on improving work conditions, including for many foreigners who endure appalling circumstances.

Yet others pointed out that employees will be able to spend more time with their families and engage in personal activities and interests, enhancing their overall satisfaction and raising their well-being.

Some said that the current two-day weekend should not be changed and were worried that the introduction of the three-day holiday system would mean more working hours on the remaining four days.

Some demanded that, since Friday is an Islamic holiday, it should remain that way.

The proposal was forwarded by Parliament Speaker Ahmed Al Musallam to the legislative and legal affairs committee for review last week.

The other MPs who support the proposal are Hamad Al Doy, Ahmed Qaratah, Mohammed Al Balushi, and Badr Al Tamimi.

Committee chairman Mohsin Al Asbool requested all those concerned be summoned to the next Cabinet meeting to give feedback on the proposal.

Discussions are still underway for this new legislation, with more information set to be announced over the coming weeks.

The UAE has a Friday-Saturday-Sunday weekend as part of a landmark reform that came into force on January 1, 2022.

The new system was rolled out across all government entities, and most firms in the private sector followed suit.

All other GCC countries observed their weekend on Friday and Saturday.