UAE’s summer midday work break to start June 15

The UAE’s midday break for outdoor workers during summer will start on June 15 and last until Sept. 15, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization has announced.

Outdoor workers are mandated to take a break from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. — with work performed under direct sunlight and in open-air areas across the UAE banned during those times — to protect them from occupational hazards and injuries related to the extreme summer heat, the ministry announcement said.

“Striving to ensure our workers’ safety, the Ministry urges companies to provide shaded areas during the Midday Break, adequate cooling devices, sufficient water, hydrating materials such as salts and other food items approved by the local authorities, first aid equipment on the job sites and other essential amenities,” the ministry posted on X.

https://x.com/MOHRE_UAE/status/1796531862032056736

Now in its 20th year, the annual noon break provides respite for outdoor workers during summer months where temperatures could reach 50 degrees Celsius or even higher. Companies are required to provide shaded areas and cooling equipment for workers during the three-hour break.

Companies face fines of up to Dh5,000 ($1,360) per worker and a maximum of Dh50,000 for multiple violations if they do not observe the regulation.

There are, however, exceptions to the midday break — works deemed necessary for technical reasons such as laying asphalt or pouring concrete on road works or to address emergencies affecting public welfare, including infrastructure maintenance or utility repairs, are allowed.

Kuwait’s midday outdoork work ban, first introduced in 2015, started on June 1 and will continue for three months with workers allowed to take a break from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m.