UAE’s midday work break starts June 15

 

The mandatory midday work break for all outdoor workers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will begin on June 15, marking the 19th year that the ban has been in effect to protect workers from the extreme summer heat and humidity.

Working in open areas and in direct sunlight is prohibited from 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. until September 15, 2023, with daily working hours in the morning and evening shifts limited to eight hours.

During the break, if a worker in the UAE works more than eight hours in a day, it will be considered overtime. Then the employees must be compensated for their extra work. UAE companies will also have to provide shaded areas for employees so that they can rest during the midday break.

Employers who violate the laws will be fined around $1,360 for each worker obliged to work during the midday break, with a maximum penalty of $13,614 if numerous workers are found to be working during the midday work break.

Mohsen Al-Nassi, assistant undersecretary for inspection affairs at the UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, said, “We are confident that employers across the country will comply with the provisions of the ban.” He noted the importance of this decision in protecting employees from the harmful UV rays of sunlight and barring employees from working in open places during the daytime.

According to the state news agency WAM, the midday break is being implemented in accordance with Ministerial Resolution No. (44) of 2022 on Occupational Health and Safety and Labour Accommodation, which aims to protect workers from any kind of occupational danger and prevent work-related injuries or illnesses due to harmful environments.

UAE companies need to provide sufficient cold drinking water to employees during the midday break. Employees who are exempt from the midday ban will also get cold water.