Countries with the Least Working Hours in 2025, Check the List

Work hours differ from country to country, depending on culture, economy, and government policies. While many nations still follow long workweeks, some countries have adopted shorter working hours that focus on a better work-life balance. In 2025, a few countries stand out for having the least working hours, showing that productivity and happiness can go hand in hand. Let’s explore these countries and their unique approaches.

Global Working Hours Trends

On average, employees in some nations now work fewer than 30 hours per week. These shorter schedules are often supported by government policies, cultural priorities, and social benefits. In Europe, strict labor laws ensure people enjoy leisure and family time. In contrast, Yemen’s shorter hours reflect different economic and regional factors. Despite the differences, all these countries highlight that quality of work matters more than quantity of hours.

Countries with the Least Working Hours in 2025

Yemen, with the average working hours of 25.9, has the least working hours in the world as of 2025, followed by Netherlands, Norway and Austria.

Here is the list of countries with the least working hours in 2025:

Rank Country Avg. Weekly Hours Men Women
1. Yemen 25.9 26.4 18
2. Netherlands 26.8 30.4 22.6
3. Norway 27.1 29.4 24.6
4. Austria 28.4 32.1 24.3
5. Denmark 28.8 31.2 26
6. Finland 28.8 31.2 26
7. Vanuatu 29 29.2 28.7
8. Mozambique 29 33.1 25.2
9. Sweden 29.3 31.2 27.1

Why these Countries Work Less but Achieve More?

  • European nations like the Netherlands, Norway, and Denmark promote flexible jobs, shorter weeks, and generous leave policies.
  • Nordic countries balance high living standards with fewer hours, showing that shorter workweeks can boost happiness and efficiency.
  • Yemen reflects regional and economic realities, highlighting how different factors influence work culture.
  • Countries like Vanuatu and Mozambique also show that lifestyle and local conditions affect working patterns.
Akansha Arora

My role as a content writer specializing in current affairs at Adda247 involves meticulously researching and crafting compelling articles aimed at guiding and informing candidates preparing for National and State Level Competitive Government Exams. With a dedication to educational excellence, I strive to keep our candidates abreast of the latest developments and trends in current affairs. By providing insightful and engaging content, I aim to ensure that aspiring candidates are well-prepared and informed for their examinations.

Recent Posts

Top 10 States with Smart City Projects in India (2025 Update)

India’s Smart Cities Mission (SCM), launched in 2015, is entering its final stretch with an…

32 mins ago

November 2025 Month Current Affairs PDF

Welcome to the November 2025 Edition of the Affairs PDF – your all-inclusive monthly guide to…

1 hour ago

RBI’s ₹1 Trillion OMO Purchase: What It Means and Why It Matters

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recently announced two major liquidity measures, a ₹1 trillion…

1 hour ago

Which Animal is Known as the Unicorn of the Sea? Know the Name

The ocean is full of amazing and mysterious creatures, many of which are rarely seen…

1 hour ago

Putin Receives Grand Ceremonial Welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan During India Visit

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s 2025 state visit to India marked a major diplomatic milestone, reviving…

1 hour ago

MEITY & MEA Enable Paperless Passport Verification via DigiLocker

In a major boost to Digital India, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY)…

2 hours ago