The UAE’s Midday Break regulation will be enforced from June 15 to September 15, 2025, prohibiting outdoor work between 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM. This initiative aims to protect workers from extreme heat during the peak afternoon hours and is governed by strict guidelines issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).

Now in its 21st consecutive year, the Midday Break reflects the UAE’s ongoing commitment to worker welfare, environmental sustainability, and adherence to international occupational health standards. The initiative is designed to prevent heat-related injuries and illnesses among workers during the hottest months of the year. Mohsin Ali Al Nassi, Assistant Undersecretary for Inspection and Compliance at MoHRE, stated that this initiative has maintained over 99% compliance in recent years, highlighting the importance of safeguarding human capital as “the most valuable asset in any organisation.”

MoHRE will continue conducting on-site inspections and awareness drives at both work sites and labor accommodations to ensure that employers and employees understand their rights and obligations under this seasonal regulation. Dalal Alshehhi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Labour Protection, praised the private sector for its proactive contributions, noting that it has become a “model of constructive partnership” between the Ministry, the private sector, and the broader community.

To comply with MoHRE’s Midday Break regulations, employers must provide shaded rest areas or indoor cooling facilities, cooling equipment such as fans or air-conditioned spaces, adequate drinking water, and on-site first-aid supplies. These provisions are essential to ensure that workers remain safe and healthy during their breaks and while performing tasks allowed under regulated conditions.

Certain work activities are exempt from the ban due to technical constraints or public safety concerns. These include asphalt laying, concrete pouring, emergency utility repairs, traffic management, and government-approved projects that require uninterrupted operations. Even for these activities, employers are still required to implement all possible safety measures to protect their workers.

MoHRE has deployed advanced inspection systems to monitor compliance and encourages the public to report violations through its call center, website, and smart app. Penalties for violations can reach Dh5 000 per worker and up to Dh50 000 for repeated or large-scale breaches.

The Midday Break is part of the broader ‘We the UAE 2031’ strategy, which promotes sustainable, human-centered work environments across various sectors. This initiative reflects the country’s values of inclusivity and care, benefiting over 200 nationalities living and working in the UAE. The Ministry will intensify inspection visits and awareness campaigns in collaboration with public and private stakeholders to ensure a consistent application of the Midday Break across all work environments.