The UAE authorities have announced the implementation of the midday break from June 15 to September 15, 2024. This break, now in its 20th consecutive year, will prohibit work under direct sunlight and in open-air areas across the UAE between 12:30 pm and 3:00 pm.
For each employee found working during this prohibited period, authorities will impose a fine of Dh5,000, which can reach up to Dh50,000 if multiple employees are found working during the break.
Certain jobs are exempted from this policy. Essential services such as water supply, electricity maintenance, traffic management, asphalt laying, and concrete pouring on road works may continue during the midday break. Companies undertaking these tasks must request a permit to work during the break hours.
Employers are required to provide materials such as parasols, shaded areas, fans, and sufficient drinking water to protect workers from direct sunlight. Additionally, job sites must be equipped with first aid equipment to ensure worker safety.
“Implementing the midday break has become a deeply ingrained culture in the UAE’s business community and among private-sector companies in the country, given its role in ensuring the health and safety of workers, who we consider to be the most valuable resource of any company,” said Mohsin Al Nassi, Assistant Undersecretary for Inspection Affairs at the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).