The UAE’s midday outdoor work ban returns on June 15, barring all work under direct sunlight and in open-air spaces between 12:30pm and 3pm daily through September 15.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) confirmed the measures this week, noting the ban is now in its 22nd consecutive year.
Employers in the UAE are required to provide shaded rest areas for workers during the restricted hours, along with fans, sufficient drinking water, and hydration supplies.
Companies caught violating the ban face a fine of AED5,000 per affected worker, with total penalties capped at AED50,000 where multiple workers are involved.
Some activities are exempt where work cannot technically be paused. These include asphalt paving and concrete pouring that cannot be deferred, emergency repairs needed to restore water, electricity, or traffic flow, and work that requires a government permit due to its effect on public life and movement.
Last year, the ministry recorded a 99 per cent compliance rate across companies during its Occupational Heat Stress Prevention Policy, which also provided 10,000 air-conditioned rest areas with amenities for delivery riders around the country.
