Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi is taking a firm stance on the company's return-to-office (RTO) policy, making it clear to employees that those who prefer full-time remote work will need to "make a choice" about their future with the company. This decision comes amid growing internal tensions over Uber's stricter RTO mandates, with some employees expressing concerns about burnout and logistical challenges.
Starting in June 2025, Uber is requiring corporate employees to work from the office at least three days a week. This new hybrid work model designates Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays as mandatory in-office days, with the option to work remotely on Mondays and Fridays. The policy builds upon the "anchor days" model introduced in 2022, which previously required employees to be in the office on Tuesdays and Thursdays. In addition to the RTO policy, Uber is also extending the time employees must work before becoming eligible for a paid sabbatical, from five years to eight years.
Khosrowshahi addressed employee concerns during an all-hands meeting, acknowledging that the changes may be unpopular but defending the company's position. He stated that "it is what it is" and emphasized that the company is taking a risk by implementing these policies. In a subsequent interview, Khosrowshahi described the policy as "a great policy" that strikes "the right mix of giving your employees flexibility but also getting them to the office for those all-important teamwork tasks".
When questioned about employees hired under different remote work expectations, Khosrowshahi maintained that they would "have to make a choice," citing the strong job market and plentiful opportunities for Uber employees elsewhere. He clarified that while Uber prefers employees to stay and grow with the company, the new policies are "here to stay".
Uber's decision to tighten its hybrid work policy reflects a broader trend among tech companies to reevaluate post-pandemic working models. Companies like Amazon, Google, Meta, and JPMorgan Chase have also reinstated or strengthened return-to-office mandates, citing the importance of in-person collaboration, innovation, and company culture.
Uber leadership believes that in-person work fuels collaboration, sparks creativity, and increases velocity. The company is investing in additional office space, including new cafeterias and meeting rooms, to accommodate the increased in-office presence. Chief People Officer Nikki Krishnamurthy acknowledged employee concerns about limited meeting rooms and inadequate desk space, revealing that Uber is adding 700,000 square feet of office space across San Francisco and Seattle.
The policy changes have sparked mixed reactions among Uber employees. Some express frustration with the abrupt changes, particularly given existing burnout concerns and logistical complaints about overcrowded office space. Others question whether the new policies are a veiled attempt to reduce staff. However, Khosrowshahi has denied that the policy shifts are linked to any planned layoffs or intended attrition strategies.
Despite the potential for employee pushback, Uber is moving forward with its stricter RTO policy, signaling a firm belief in the benefits of in-person work. The company's leadership is betting that the advantages of increased collaboration and a stronger company culture will outweigh any potential drawbacks from employee attrition.
