UAE Announces Midday Break for Outdoor Workers Starting June 15

Abu Dhabi: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced a mandatory midday break for outdoor laborers starting from Saturday, June 15, to protect them from the severe summer heat. This directive, issued on Friday, May 31, by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), is a key component of the UAE’s broader strategy to safeguard worker health and ensure compliance with occupational safety standards. The break will prohibit work under direct sunlight from 12:30 pm to 3 pm and will remain in effect until September 15.

For the 20th consecutive year, the midday break policy underscores the UAE’s long-standing commitment to occupational health and safety. It is part of the country’s integrated occupational health and safety system, designed to mitigate risks associated with extreme heat exposure. During the summer months, temperatures in the UAE can reach dangerous levels, posing significant health risks to outdoor workers. This policy aims to prevent heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke, which can be life-threatening if not properly managed.

Key Provisions of the Midday Break Policy

1. Prohibition of Work During Peak Heat Hours: The core provision of the midday break policy is the prohibition of outdoor work from 12:30 pm to 3 pm. This period is typically the hottest part of the day, where the risk of heat-related illnesses is highest. By mandating a break during these hours, the UAE government aims to reduce the incidence of heat stress among outdoor workers.
2. Provision of Shaded Rest Areas: Employers must provide shaded areas where workers can rest during the midday break. These rest areas must be adequately shaded and cool, offering a respite from the sun’s direct rays. Ensuring that workers have access to these rest areas is crucial in preventing heat-related illnesses.
3. Limitation on Working Hours: The policy limits the daily working hours for outdoor laborers to a maximum of eight hours, whether in the morning, evening, or both shifts combined. This regulation helps manage workers’ exposure to heat and physical exertion. If an employee works beyond these stipulated hours, they are entitled to overtime pay, ensuring fair compensation for additional labor.
4. Strict Penalties for Non-Compliance: To ensure adherence to the midday break policy, the UAE government has instituted stringent penalties for violations. Employers who fail to comply with the regulations will face a fine of Dirham 5,000 per worker found working during the prohibited hours. The total fines for an employer can reach up to Dirham 50,000. These penalties underscore the seriousness with which the UAE government views worker safety and compliance with labor laws.

Community Involvement and Reporting Mechanisms

Enhancing the effectiveness of the midday break policy involves encouraging public involvement in monitoring compliance. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has established a dedicated call center, accessible at 600 590 000, where individuals can report any observed violations of the midday break policy. This initiative aims to foster a sense of community responsibility and ensure that worker safety is upheld across the country.

Long-term Commitment to Worker Welfare

Implementing the midday break policy highlights the UAE’s long-term commitment to worker welfare and safety. Over the past two decades, the policy has evolved to become a cornerstone of the UAE’s labor regulations, reflecting the country’s dedication to upholding high standards of occupational health and safety. By continuously refining and enforcing this policy, the UAE aims to create a safer and more humane working environment for all outdoor laborers.

The midday break policy is not just a regulatory requirement; it reflects the UAE’s broader vision for sustainable and inclusive development. Protecting the health and well-being of its workforce lays the foundation for a more resilient and productive economy. This policy also aligns with international labor standards and demonstrates the UAE’s commitment to global best practices in worker safety and rights.

The UAE’s announcement of the mandatory midday break for outdoor workers is a critical step in ensuring the health and safety of its labor force during the scorching summer months. With rigorous guidelines for employers, strict penalties for non-compliance, and a robust reporting mechanism, the midday break policy embodies the UAE’s comprehensive approach to occupational health and safety. As the country continues to develop and diversify its economy, protecting the well-being of its workers remains a top priority, reinforcing the UAE’s reputation as a leader in labor rights and safety.