The United Arab Emirates will begin enforcing its annual midday work ban on Monday, June 15, prohibiting outdoor work under direct sunlight and in open areas between 12:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. daily.
The measure, which will remain in effect until Sept. 15, marks the 22nd consecutive year of the country’s initiative to protect workers from extreme summer temperatures and heat-related illnesses.
Under the policy, outdoor labor during the restricted hours is prohibited, except for activities that cannot be delayed or carried out outside the ban period.
Exemptions include certain road paving and concrete works, emergency repairs involving essential services such as water and electricity networks, and projects requiring special government permits due to their impact on public movement.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation said employers must provide shaded rest areas, cooling equipment, drinking water, hydration supplies, and first-aid facilities for workers, particularly those involved in exempted operations.
The annual ban is part of the UAE’s occupational health and safety framework aimed at reducing the risks of heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and other heat-related conditions during the peak summer season.
The restrictions take effect as temperatures across the UAE continue to rise, with daytime highs frequently exceeding 45 degrees Celsius in many parts of the country.
