In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), companies are showing their commitment to worker welfare by implementing the midday work ban. This regulation is designed to protect employees working under direct sunlight by prohibiting outdoor work from 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm. This initiative, which has been in place for 19 consecutive years, runs from June 15 to September 15 to coincide with the hottest months of the year.
The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has been closely monitoring compliance with the midday break scheme. As of now, only 59 violations have been identified, involving a total of 130 workers across different establishments. This relatively low number of breaches demonstrates that companies are taking the safety and well-being of their employees seriously.
To ensure that workers are protected from the scorching heat, employers are required to provide shaded areas and cooling equipment like fans during the designated rest time. This approach not only safeguards workers’ health but also emphasizes the importance of creating safe and comfortable working environments.
Establishments that fail to adhere to these regulations can face fines of up to Dh5,000 per worker, with a maximum cumulative fine of Dh50,000 in case multiple workers are affected. The penalties are intended to encourage employers to prioritize the safety and comfort of their workforce during the hottest part of the day.
The MoHRE has been actively monitoring compliance with the midday break scheme through a rigorous inspection process. More than 67,000 inspection visits were conducted from June 15 to August 17 to ensure that companies were following the guidelines. This comprehensive approach underscores the UAE government’s dedication to ensuring that all workers are treated fairly and provided with appropriate working conditions.
Mohsen Al Nassi, Assistant Undersecretary for Inspection Affairs at the MoHRE, highlighted that the midday break is part of a comprehensive effort to protect workers’ rights and enhance occupational safety and health standards. He emphasized that these measures reflect the UAE’s commitment to fostering a competitive and flexible labor market that prioritizes the welfare of employees.
The MoHRE has encouraged residents and workers to contribute to upholding these standards by reporting any violations they witness. This can be done through the ministry’s call center, its dedicated app, or its official website. This collaborative approach empowers everyone to play a role in ensuring that workplace conditions in the UAE remain safe, respectful, and in line with established regulations.
