Qatar and Bahrain enforce summer midday outdoor work bans to protect workers from extreme heat

Qatar and Bahrain have announced the implementation of annual midday outdoor work bans as Gulf countries intensify efforts to protect workers from extreme summer temperatures and rising heat-related health risks.

In Qatar, the Ministry of Labour confirmed the enforcement of Ministerial Decision No. 17 of 2021 on heat stress prevention, effective from June 1 to September 15. Under the regulation, outdoor work is prohibited between 10am and 3:30pm daily.

The ministry said the measure forms part of broader national efforts to ensure a safe working environment and safeguard workers exposed to high temperatures during the summer months. Employers have been urged to comply with the regulations and implement all necessary precautions to protect employees from heat stress and related illnesses.

“As part of the national efforts to provide a safe work environment and ensure workers’ safety during the summer months, the Ministry of Labor announces the implementation of Ministerial Resolution No. 17 of 2021 regarding the necessary precautions to protect workers from heat stress,” the ministry said in a statement.

Bahrain has also confirmed the enforcement of its annual summer midday work ban, which will take effect from June 15 to August 31. The regulation prohibits outdoor work in direct sunlight between 12pm and 4pm.

The move is aimed at reducing workplace accidents, heat exhaustion, sunstroke, and other summer-related occupational risks as temperatures and humidity levels rise across the region.

Authorities in Bahrain warned that violations could result in strict penalties under the country’s Labour Law. “Anyone violating the provisions of this decision will face penalties stipulated under Article (192) of the Labour Law in the Private Sector, issued under Law No. (36) of 2012. The article states: “Anyone who violates any provisions of Chapter Fifteen and the decisions issued in implementation thereof shall be punished with imprisonment for a period not exceeding three months, and a fine of no less than 500 dinars and no more than 1,000 dinars, or either of these two penalties.” the Ministry said. 

The announcements come as Gulf countries continue strengthening heat protection policies amid intensifying climate conditions and growing concerns over worker welfare. Kuwait recently announced a daytime ban on delivery motorcycles during peak summer hours, while the UAE and Oman have introduced restrictions targeting delivery riders and outdoor workers to improve safety during extreme weather conditions.

Across the Gulf, governments are increasingly combining labour protection measures with broader energy management strategies as soaring summer temperatures place additional pressure on electricity grids, transport systems, and public infrastructure.