UAE Enforces Midday Break from June 15 to Protect Outdoor Workers

The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has announced the return of the annual Midday Break, which prohibits outdoor work under direct sunlight from 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. between June 15 and September 15, 2025. Now in its 21st consecutive year, the initiative underscores the nation’s commitment to occupational safety and worker welfare during the peak summer months.

The policy aims to protect workers, particularly in construction and other outdoor sectors, from heat-related illnesses and injuries. According to MoHRE, the initiative reflects international best practices and aligns with the UAE’s broader sustainability goals and commitment to human-centric labour policies.

“The Midday Break has achieved a compliance rate of over 99% for several years running,” said Mohsin Ali Al Nassi, Assistant Undersecretary for Inspection and Compliance at MoHRE. “This demonstrates not only the UAE’s deeply rooted humanitarian values but also the private sector’s awareness of the importance of protecting human capital—the most valuable asset of any organisation.”

MoHRE officials said that the ministry will intensify field visits to monitor compliance and raise awareness among both employers and employees. These efforts include site inspections and outreach at labour accommodations, focusing on education around workplace safety in extreme temperatures.

Dalal Alshehhi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Labour Protection, praised companies that have gone beyond compliance by setting up shaded rest areas and providing hydration and cooling equipment. “These efforts contribute significantly to workers’ health and productivity and reflect the success of our broader awareness strategies,” Alshehhi said. “They also align with the values outlined in the ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision.”

The ministry has urged all private sector entities to ensure workers have access to shaded areas, fans, drinking water, electrolyte supplements, and basic first aid kits during the restricted hours.

Some exemptions to the Midday Break are permitted for tasks that must continue due to technical or public interest reasons, such as asphalt laying, concrete pouring, and emergency utility repairs. In these cases, employers are still required to take all possible precautions to safeguard workers’ health.

Violations of the Midday Break policy will incur fines of AED 5,000 per worker, with a maximum penalty of AED 50,000 for multiple breaches. The public is encouraged to report non-compliance through MoHRE’s hotline (600590000), official website, or mobile application.

MoHRE reaffirmed its commitment to conducting joint inspections and public awareness campaigns throughout the summer, in coordination with government agencies and private sector partners.