In a new directive, the Kuwaiti government has announced the implementation of evening work shifts starting on January 5, 2025. This initiative, following the Cabinet’s recent decision, aims to enhance productivity, streamline government processes, and reduce congestion during peak hours. The shift will be executed in three phases, with the first phase commencing today.

Key Details of the Evening Work Initiative

According to sources from the Civil Service Bureau, all government agencies have been provided with guidelines on how to manage the evening work period. These guidelines cover the following key points:

• Defining roles and responsibilities for evening shift employees.
• Ensuring efficient handling of increased client traffic during extended hours.
• Providing necessary technical and service support for evening operations.
• Designating public officials to supervise the evening shift.

Objectives Behind the Evening Work Shift

The main objectives of implementing the evening work schedule include:

• Improving work conditions within the government sector.
• Simplifying and streamlining work procedures.
• Increasing productivity and reducing job overcrowding.
• Addressing disguised unemployment by optimizing workforce management.

Implementation Process and Phases

The initiative will unfold in three distinct phases:

1. Phase 1: Begins on January 5, 2025, marking the start of the evening work period.
2. Phase 2: A six-month trial phase for evaluation and adjustments.
3. Phase 3: Submission of progress reports every two months to ensure the initiative's stability and effectiveness.

Benefits of the Evening Work Shifts

Sources confirm that the evening work schedule is expected to bring a variety of benefits, including:

• Enhanced employee productivity and better efficiency in government operations.
• Expanded access to government services, benefiting both citizens and residents.
• Improved customer service with extended hours.
• Alleviating morning traffic congestion and offering better work-life balance for employees.

Support and Participation Across Government Agencies

Although many government agencies have expressed approval for the new shifts, with 20-30% of their workforce participating, some sectors, such as the Ministry of Oil, have requested delays or opt-out based on their service models. These agencies may not require evening hours for client interactions.

Commitment to Progress and Employee Welfare

Throughout the seven-month implementation period, employees working the evening shift will not have the option to transfer back to morning shifts. The total number of employees expected to participate in the evening work initiative exceeds 90,000, which is around 20-30% of Kuwait’s total government workforce. The program’s success will be monitored, with refinements made to ensure the initiative’s long-term benefits for government efficiency and public service.