A recent survey from recruitment firm Robert Walters reveals that the 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to disrupt professional life across the UAE. Due to the significant time zone differences between the Gulf and the host nations—the United States, Canada, and Mexico—many matches occur during the early hours of the morning. Consequently, approximately 11% of expatriate workers are considering calling in sick after watching their home teams play, while 34% are looking to transition to remote work to manage their sleep schedules and match viewing.

The findings highlight a growing need for workplace agility, with 37% of professionals noting that flexible arrangements would significantly boost their loyalty and overall perception of their employers. Forward-thinking companies are already taking notice, with two in five employers confirming they have authorized flexible hours or remote options during the tournament. Jason Grundy, Managing Director of Robert Walters Middle East, emphasizes that such temporary measures are essential for maintaining productivity, as they allow staff to balance their personal passions with professional responsibilities while fostering a more positive and morale-boosting work environment.