The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has announced a mid-day break, or work ban, during the peak summer months across the United Arab Emirates.

The mid-day work ban will begin on June 15 and will last until September 15, 2025.

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Announcing the decision, the Ministry stated: “We announce the implementation of the Midday Break, prohibiting work under direct sunlight and in open-air spaces between 12:30 pm and 3:00 pm, from 15 June to 15 September 2025."

“Now in its 21st consecutive year, the Midday Break is rooted in a sustainability-centred approach that the UAE implements in line with its commitment to providing a safe working environment as per international best practices and occupational health and safety standards, protecting workers from injuries and illnesses caused by working in high temperatures during the summer months,” it added.

The Ministry will also begin inspections of all outdoor work areas to ensure these rules are not violated by any employer. It also urged the public to report any such violations: “We urge the public to report any violations or negative practices related to the ban through our call centre at 600590000, or via the Ministry's website and smart app.”

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Last year as well, the Ministry implemented the work ban during hours of extreme temperatures, and MoHRE's Mohsin Al Nassi emphasised that this midday work ban is crucial to ensure the health and safety of workers.

In Kuwait, the mid-day work ban has already begun from June 1 and will last until the end of August 2025 to safeguard workers from extreme heat, as temperatures reached a scorching 49°C last month — the highest recorded globally. The work ban applies to all open spaces from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm during these peak summer months.