Workplace noise, frequent distractions, and lack of quiet zones top the list of barriers preventing employees from performing at their best, according to the Unispace Global Workplace Insights 2025-2026 report, A Moment of Clarity. While 75% of office workers worldwide flag these issues, Indian employees point to a different set of challenges—highlighting the need for better physical spaces, reliable technology, and dedicated focus zones.

The report underscores that access to the right tools and people remains a universal driver of productivity. Yet in India, improving infrastructure, tech reliability, and frictionless focus areas is crucial to meet employee expectations. Despite hybrid work trends, 98% of Indian employees foresee a continued need for an office by 2030—outpacing the global average of 93% and marking India as the most optimistic country about the future of physical workplaces.

These insights are based on a survey of 5,231 full-time employees across 14 markets, including India, the United States, Singapore, Germany, and Australia.

India Is Resetting the Office Around Performance, Not Perks

“Aside from the fact that Indian employees are near-unanimous in expecting to need an office in 2030, this year’s report offers a clear roadmap for the future office,” said Abi Roni Mattom, Country Director of Unispace India. “India is resetting the workplace around performance—not perks. Employees are asking for better-fitted spaces, rock-solid tech, and frictionless focus. Get the basics right, and India’s talent will do the rest.”

Indian Workers Spend Less Time in the Office—but Use It Differently

According to the report, Indian workers spend an average of 52% of their weekly hours in the office—10% less than the global average. They are also least likely to work at a dedicated desk (27%) compared to their global peers, instead favoring meeting rooms, collaboration zones, and social hubs.

The top three reasons Indians go to the office are access to tools and technology, learning and mentoring opportunities, and socializing. Globally, collaboration emerges as the primary reason for returning to the workplace.

“The data underscores that the future of Indian workplaces will be less about rows of desks and more about spaces for training, mentoring, and social connection. Employers who get this right will not only attract top talent but also future-proof their workplace strategies,” said Swatasiddha Majumdar, Principal of Strategy at Unispace India.

Hybrid Working Gets Mixed Reviews

The report notes that average office attendance dropped from 3.7 days per week in 2024 to 2.9 in 2025, and employees expect this to fall further to 2.6 days by 2030.

Globally, more than a quarter of full-time employees are now required to be in the office five days a week. The US leads with 37% of businesses mandating full in-office work, driven by a shift from failed hybrid policies to stricter rules.

Asia—including India—shows the highest proportion of fixed hybrid policies (25%) and the second-highest for full in-office mandates (29%).

Europe continues to lead in hybrid flexibility (65%), with nearly a quarter (23%) of European employees able to choose which days they go in—the highest globally.

Calm, Comfort, and Customization Are the New Workplace Fundamentals

Employees worldwide are clear about what they want from a supportive workplace. Better hospitality, personalized control over environmental factors like lighting, temperature, and noise, and access to wellness programs are now considered essentials—not perks.

39% of global respondents cited temperature as a key issue, and more than a third (35%) want greater control over their work environment. Additionally, 35% of employees say their workplace does not help attract or retain talent—underscoring the need for change.