The UAE’s annual midday work ban has come into effect starting today and will continue until September 15. Under this rule, outdoor work is strictly prohibited between 12:30 pm and 3 pm daily to safeguard workers from extreme heat and direct sunlight exposure.
Implemented by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), this marks the 21st consecutive year of the midday break, which aligns with international occupational safety standards. The initiative has consistently recorded a compliance rate exceeding 99%, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to worker welfare and its progressive labor policies.
Muhsin Al Nasser, Assistant Undersecretary at MoHRE, emphasized that this measure highlights the UAE’s social responsibility and the private sector’s dedication to protecting human capital. Dalal Al Shehhi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Labor Protection, noted that joint initiatives launched during the break period further strengthen community values and support the UAE’s ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision.
Regular inspections are being carried out to ensure companies adhere to the rules, which require providing shaded resting areas, cooling facilities, drinking water, and first aid supplies for workers. Exceptions to the ban include urgent works such as road tarring, concrete pouring that cannot be paused, and emergency repairs to vital services.
Companies breaching the law face fines of AED 5,000 per worker, up to a maximum of AED 50,000. The Ministry urges the public to report any violations through the call center at 600 590000, the MoHRE website, or the official smart app.
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