UAE midday work ban: Dates and timings for this summer from MoHRE

Dubai: The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has announced the implementation of the Midday Break, prohibiting outdoor work under direct sunlight between 12:30pm and 3:00pm, from 15 June to 15 September 2025.

Now in its 21st consecutive year, the initiative reflects the UAE’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and to ensuring a safe working environment aligned with international occupational health and safety standards. The regulation aims to protect workers from heat-related injuries and illnesses during the peak summer months.

Record compliance

Mohsin Ali Al Nassi, Assistant Undersecretary for Inspection and Compliance at MoHRE, noted the Midday Break has consistently achieved a compliance rate of over 99% in recent years.

“This record highlights the deeply rooted social and humanitarian values within the UAE’s private sector,” he said. “It also reflects a high level of awareness about the importance of safeguarding human capital — the most valuable asset in any organisation.”

Al Nassi added that MoHRE is committed to increasing awareness through field inspections at work sites and labour accommodations, ensuring that both employers and employees understand the health and safety requirements associated with working in high temperatures.

Private sector praised

Dalal Alshehhi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Labour Protection at MoHRE, emphasised the collaborative nature of the Midday Break initiative.

“It has become a model of constructive partnership between the Ministry, the private sector, and the broader community,” she said. “Many organisations have launched their own initiatives to support workers, reinforcing the values of social responsibility and contributing to the success of our awareness campaigns.”

Alshehhi also praised private sector companies that have established air-conditioned rest areas for workers during the break, urging others to adopt similar measures to enhance worker wellbeing and productivity.

Regulations and required provisions for compliance

• Under the Midday Break regulations, companies must provide:

• Shaded areas or indoor facilities for resting workers.

• Cooling equipment, such as fans or air-conditioned rooms.

• Adequate drinking water and approved hydration supplements like electrolytes.

• First-aid supplies on site.

These measures are intended to ensure the comfort and safety of workers during the daily break and while carrying out tasks that are permitted under the rules.

Exemptions for critical and time-sensitive work

Certain types of work are exempt from the Midday Break due to technical or public safety requirements. These include:

• Laying asphalt or pouring concrete, where delays may compromise the integrity of the work.

• Emergency repairs to utilities such as electricity, water, or sewage systems.

• Traffic management tasks or other services that affect public safety or mobility.

• Government-approved activities requiring continuous execution.

• Even in these cases, employers must still take all necessary precautions to ensure worker safety.

Monitoring and penalties for non-compliance

MoHRE actively monitors compliance through its advanced inspection systems and encourages members of the public to report violations via:

• Call centre: 600590000

• MoHRE website

• MoHRE smart application

Companies found violating the Midday Break regulations face a fine of Dh5,000 per worker, up to a maximum of Dh50,000 for multiple breaches.

Ministry intensifies awareness campaigns

The Ministry will expand its awareness campaigns and inspection visits in partnership with public and private entities to ensure widespread understanding and adherence to the Midday Break provisions. The initiative is part of the broader ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision, which aims to promote a sustainable and people-centric work environment for the over 200 nationalities that live and work in the country.