MoHRE clarified that exemptions apply only to essential work that cannot be paused, while companies must continue to comply with all heat-safety requirements.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) said it will strictly enforce rules related to worker health and safety during the UAE’s midday break, with companies facing fines of Dh5,000 per worker for violations.
MoHRE added that administrative penalties can reach up to Dh50,000 in cases involving multiple workers.
Depending on the severity and frequency of violations, penalties may also include suspension of the establishment’s file, downgrading of its classification within the MoHRE tier system, and referral to public prosecution in cases involving worker injuries or failure to comply with legal obligations.
The clarification comes as the UAE enforces its Occupational Heat Stress Prevention Policy, which prohibits work under direct sunlight and in open areas from 12:30pm to 3pm daily between June 15 and September 15.
Now in its 22nd consecutive year, the policy aims to protect workers from heat stress and heat-related injuries during the peak summer months.
MoHRE previously told Khaleej Times that delivery riders are included under the policy and benefit from specific protections suited to their work. Riders cannot be required to work during restricted hours if they choose not to, and on-foot deliveries are banned from 12:30pm to 3pm during the enforcement period.
Who is exempt from the midday break?
MoHRE said exemptions are strictly limited to work that cannot be interrupted for technical, operational, or public safety reasons.
These include emergency repairs or preventive work involving essential services such as water, electricity, and telecommunications, as well as tasks needed to maintain traffic flow and other critical public services.
Exemptions also cover activities that require permits from competent authorities due to their impact on public life and traffic movement.
The ministry said exempted activities are clearly defined and do not require separate approval to continue during the midday break. However, where permits are required, those conditions must still be met under applicable regulations.
MoHRE emphasized that companies carrying out exempted work remain fully responsible for occupational health and safety compliance.
Employers must provide shaded rest areas appropriate for the workforce size, cold drinking water, hydration supplies such as electrolytes and approved alternatives, industrial cooling equipment like fans, and first-aid kits at worksites.
The ministry added that inspection teams are trained to distinguish between genuinely exempt work and routine outdoor activity that must stop during the midday break, supported by digital monitoring tools to detect violations.
Members of the public can report violations via MoHRE’s call centre at 600590000, or through its smart app and website.
