The UAE's annual Midday Break initiative came into effect on June 15, reinforcing the country's commitment to protecting workers from the risks associated with extreme summer temperatures. Under the regulation, work under direct sunlight and in open outdoor areas is prohibited daily from 12:30pm to 3:00pm until September 15.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has urged all employers to strictly comply with the rule, which aims to reduce heat-related illnesses and ensure a safer working environment for labourers, particularly those in construction and other outdoor sectors.
Companies are required to provide shaded rest areas, adequate cooling equipment, sufficient drinking water, hydration supplements, and first-aid facilities for workers. Employers must also display work schedules in visible locations and ensure that employees can take their mandated rest periods during the hottest hours of the day.
Now in its 22nd consecutive year, the Midday Break programme reflects the UAE's long-standing dedication to occupational health, worker welfare, and international labour standards. The initiative has become a key component of the country's efforts to enhance workplace safety and promote the wellbeing of its workforce during the peak summer season.
