Key Takeaways
-
UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) enforces midday break from June 15 to September 15
-
Outdoor work is banned from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM across all emirates
-
Companies found violating the rule face fines of up to AED 50,000
-
Measures aim to protect workers from heat-related illnesses during peak summer
Midday Break Rule Returns for 20th Consecutive Year
To safeguard laborers from extreme summer heat, the UAE has officially enforced its annual midday break rule, prohibiting outdoor work during the hottest part of the day from June 15 to September 15, 2025. This long-standing regulation mandates that all construction and outdoor manual labor activities must pause from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM daily, across both public and private sectors.
The rule, in place for the 20th consecutive year, is implemented by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) and applies nationwide, including all seven emirates.
Strict Penalties for Violations
Companies that fail to comply face fines of AED 5,000 per worker, up to a maximum of AED 50,000. Inspectors from MOHRE are conducting random and scheduled site visits to ensure adherence. In 2024, over 80,000 field inspectionswere carried out, resulting in multiple warnings and fines.
Repeat or severe violations may result in temporary suspension of business licenses or downgrade of the company’s classification in the ministry’s records.
Employer Responsibilities Expanded in 2025
Under updated 2025 guidelines, employers must now also provide:
-
Shaded resting areas that meet minimum ventilation standards
-
Free drinking water and rehydration supplies (including salts and electrolytes)
-
Educational materials to workers on heat exhaustion and stroke prevention
-
On-site supervisors trained in emergency response to heat-related conditions
These additional provisions were introduced following a 2024 review of summer work conditions, in alignment with international occupational safety standards.
Support for Workers and Public Awareness
The UAE has launched a bilingual awareness campaign in Arabic and English, supplemented with materials in Hindi, Urdu, Bengali, and Malayalam to reach diverse labor populations. Public service messages are being shared across radio, social media, and digital billboards.
Municipalities in Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi have also collaborated to set up cooling stations in labor-dense areas, offering temporary relief for workers during rest periods.
Health and Safety as National Priority
According to the UAE National Center of Meteorology, temperatures during peak summer hours regularly exceed 45°C, with high humidity compounding heat stress risk. Medical experts emphasize that hydration, rest, and shaded environments significantly reduce the chance of heatstroke and related complications.
The midday break rule is considered a cornerstone of the UAE’s occupational safety strategy, with the International Labour Organization (ILO) previously praising the UAE for its proactive summer heat policies.
Stay informed on the latest news and insights across the UAE —
Subscribe to our newsletter and explore more at fäm Properties.