With 99% compliance, here’s what the UAE is doing to protect workers in peak summer heat

Starting Sunday, June 15, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE) will enforce the Midday Work Ban, a regulation prohibiting outdoor work under direct sunlight between 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM.

This ban, which continues through September 15, aims to prevent heat-related illnesses and injuries during the hottest months of the year. The Ministry’s website highlights that this marks the 21st consecutive year of the ban’s implementation, underscoring the UAE’s commitment to global occupational health and safety standards. The initiative is a crucial part of creating safer work environments across the country during summer’s peak heat.

Strong Compliance Reflects UAE’s Humanitarian Values

According to Mohsen Al Nassi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Inspection and Compliance Sector at MoHRE:“The Midday Work Ban has achieved an outstanding compliance rate of over 99% for consecutive years, which highlights the deep-rooted social and humanitarian values within the UAE’s business community and private sector. It also reflects an advanced level of awareness regarding the importance of safeguarding human capital, which is a company’s most valuable asset.

Moreover, it underscores the humane and progressive nature of UAE labour laws, particularly in relation to occupational safety and health.

” Similarly, Dalal Al Shehhi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for the Labor Protection Sector, pointed out that:“The Midday Work Ban has become a leading example of partnership between the Ministry, the private sector, and members of the community. This is reflected in the way partners have developed initiatives for workers during the ban period, thereby promoting the concept of social responsibility and highlighting the success of awareness strategies and the entrenchment of humanitarian values in the UAE’s work environment.

” The UAE, home to more than 200 nationalities, continues to align this regulation with the broader “We the UAE 2031” vision, fostering a thriving and inclusive society.

Active Inspections and Supportive Measures for Worker Safety

MoHRE conducts regular field inspections at worksites and workers’ accommodations to raise awareness and enforce compliance with the ban. These visits help prevent heat exhaustion and sunstroke by reinforcing the importance of adhering to safety standards. Many private companies support this initiative by providing fully equipped rest areas during the banned hours. These spaces include shaded areas, fans, sufficient drinking water, hydrating salts approved by local authorities, and first aid kits. Such measures ensure workers can rest and recover safely before resuming their duties.

Exceptions, Monitoring, and Penalties

The ban allows exceptions for critical work that cannot be paused, such as asphalt laying, concrete pouring, and emergency repairs affecting utilities or traffic.

However, these activities require authorization from relevant government authorities and must be completed promptly. To ensure strict compliance, MoHRE encourages public reporting of violations through its call centre (600590000), official website, and mobile app. Companies violating the ban face fines of AED 5,000 per offending worker, with a maximum fine of AED 50,000 for multiple violations. MoHRE continues to strengthen awareness campaigns and inspections in collaboration with both public and private sectors to maintain a safe and healthy work environment during the summer months.