UAE Announces Midday Work Ban

The UAE has announced Midday Break, prohibiting work under direct sunlight and in open-air spaces from 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm. The rule will take effect on June 15 and conclude on September 15. The initiative aims to protect workers from the high temperatures during the summer. The UAE's Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation will monitor compliance through its inspection systems to ensure that no workers are made to work during the prohibited hours.

We announce the implementation of the Midday Break, prohibiting work under direct sunlight and in open-air spaces between 12:30 pm and 3:00 pm, from 15 June to 15 September 2025.

Now in its 21st consecutive year, the Midday Break is rooted in a sustainability-centred approach… pic.twitter.com/lDfZaa68yX

— وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين (@MOHRE_UAE) June 3, 2025

Companies violating the rule will be fined AED5,000 per worker, up to a maximum of AED50,000 if several workers were found to be in violation. As part of Midday Break, companies are required to provide necessary supplies and arrangements, including shaded areas to protect workers from the sun during the break or while performing permitted tasks. At the same time, certain types of work are exempt from this rule due to technical or public safety requirements. Exclusions include work required to address hazards or repair issues that impact the community, such as disruptions to water or electricity supply, traffic congestion, and malfunctions in basic services. It also covers activities that require a permit from a competent government authority due to their impact on public life and mobility.