By Staff Reporter
DUBAI-The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has warned employers that violating the country’s mandatory summer midday break rules could result in fines of up to Dh50,000, in addition to possible legal action and suspension of company operations.
Under the UAE’s Occupational Heat Stress Prevention Policy, outdoor work under direct sunlight and in open areas is prohibited every day from 12:30pm to 3:00pm, between June 15 and September 15. The initiative, now in its 22nd consecutive year, is designed to protect workers from heat-related illnesses and injuries during the country’s hottest months.
Heavy penalties for non-compliance
MoHRE said companies that fail to comply with the midday break regulations will face an administrative fine of Dh5,000 for each worker found working during the restricted hours. The total penalty may reach Dh50,000 when multiple workers are involved.
In serious or repeated cases, authorities may also suspend the company’s labour file, downgrade its classification within the ministry’s ranking system, or refer the matter to the Public Prosecution if violations result in worker injuries or demonstrate a failure to meet legal safety obligations.
Limited exemptions for essential work
The ministry clarified that exemptions apply only to essential activities that cannot be interrupted due to technical, operational or public safety reasons.
These include emergency repairs to critical services such as water, electricity and telecommunications, work necessary to maintain traffic flow, and projects requiring continuous operation because of their impact on public life.
Although exempted activities do not require additional approval to continue during the midday break, employers must still obtain any permits required under existing regulations where applicable.
Employers remain responsible for worker safety
MoHRE stressed that companies carrying out exempted work must continue to meet strict occupational health and safety standards.
Employers are required to provide:
- Shaded rest areas suitable for the workforce.
- Cold drinking water.
- Hydration supplements, including electrolytes and other approved products.
- Industrial cooling equipment such as fans and mechanical cooling devices.
- Adequate first-aid supplies at all work sites.
Delivery riders protected
The ministry also confirmed that delivery riders are covered by the heat protection policy. Riders cannot be forced to work during the restricted hours if they choose not to, while walking deliveries are prohibited between 12:30pm and 3:00pm throughout the implementation period.
Public encouraged to report violations
MoHRE said its inspection teams use advanced digital monitoring tools and are trained to distinguish between genuinely exempted activities and routine outdoor work that must stop during the midday break.
Members of the public can report suspected violations through the ministry’s call centre, smart application or official website.
Authorities have reiterated that the midday break remains one of the UAE’s key worker welfare initiatives, ensuring labourers are protected from extreme summer temperatures while employers are held accountable for maintaining safe working conditions.
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