UAE to begin midday work ban from June 15, violators face fines of up to Dh50,000

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) will enforce its annual midday work ban from June 15 to September 15, prohibiting outdoor work under direct sunlight and in open-air areas during the hottest part of the day as part of efforts to protect workers from heat-related illnesses.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) announced that the restriction will be in effect daily from 12:30pm to 3pm, marking the 22nd consecutive year of the initiative.

The measure is aimed at safeguarding workers’ health and ensuring safe working conditions during the peak summer months, when temperatures across the UAE routinely exceed 40°C.

Under the regulations, employers must provide shaded rest areas for workers during the ban period, along with cooling facilities such as fans, sufficient drinking water and hydration supplies.

The ministry said the annual initiative forms part of the UAE’s broader commitment to occupational health and safety, particularly for outdoor workers in sectors such as construction, infrastructure and logistics.

While most outdoor work will be suspended during the restricted hours, certain activities will be exempt where operations cannot be interrupted for technical or public safety reasons.

These include asphalt paving and concrete pouring projects that cannot be delayed, emergency maintenance work required to restore essential services such as water and electricity, and repairs needed to maintain traffic flow. Work requiring special permits from government authorities due to its impact on public life and movement will also be exempt.

Companies that fail to comply with the midday work ban face financial penalties of Dh5,000 for each worker found working during prohibited hours, with total fines capped at Dh50,000 if multiple violations occur.

The ministry has urged employers to adhere strictly to the regulations and prioritise worker welfare throughout the summer season.

The UAE has reported consistently high levels of compliance with the initiative. During last year’s Heat Stress Protection campaign, the ministry recorded a 99% compliance rate among companies.

As part of the campaign, authorities also provided 10,000 air-conditioned rest areas for delivery riders across the country, equipped with amenities designed to help workers cope with extreme temperatures.