If you’re living or working in the UAE this summer, starting 15th June, there’s a critical update you need to know, and no, it’s not just about high temperatures.
The UAE has officially reintroduced its annual midday work ban, a regulation designed to protect outdoor laborers from extreme summer heat. But there’s more to this than just a time restriction.
Ban Timeline and Scope
From June 15 to September 15, 2025, all outdoor work under direct sunlight will be strictly prohibited from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM. This means that construction, roadwork, and other forms of manual outdoor labor must stop during these hours no exceptions for the heat.
However, some critical sectors are exempt, such as:
- Emergency utility repairs
- Pouring concrete or asphalt
- Traffic control and public safety tasks
Even for exempted tasks, full safety precautions are mandatory.
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After UAE Bans Outside Works – What Employers Must Now Provide
Under this regulation, all employers are required to ensure proper working conditions for their teams. This includes:
- Indoor or shaded rest areas
- Cooling fans or air conditioning
- Drinking water with electrolytes
- On-site first-aid kits
The goal is simple keep workers safe and hydrated throughout the harsh midday hours.
Monitoring and Penalties
Enforcement is serious. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) will actively monitor compliance and accept public reports through the MOHRE app, website, or hotline 600590000.
🚫 Fines for violations start at AED 5,000 per worker, going up to AED 50,000 for repeated non-compliance.
Why It Matters
This isn’t just a seasonal policy it’s a life-saving initiative. With the summer heat intensifying, the UAE bans outside works to reduce heatstroke risks and ensure the health and safety of its outdoor workforce.
So the next time you see work halted midday, know that behind it is a regulation shaped by care, safety, and responsibility and now, it’s officially back.