The UAE will officially lift its annual midday work ban on September 15, marking the end of a nationwide policy aimed at protecting outdoor workers from extreme summer heat.

A long-running safety initiative.

Introduced in 2004, the midday work ban has become a cornerstone of the UAE’s occupational health and safety framework. Each year, from June 15 to September 15, outdoor work was prohibited between 12:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m., when temperatures are at their peak.

Impact and compliance.

The initiative has proven highly effective in reducing risks of heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, exhaustion, and heatstroke. According to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), compliance rates remain among the highest in the world—rising from 99% in 2022 to an impressive 99.9% in 2023. This success is credited to the strong cooperation between private companies and regulators.

Employer responsibilities.

Beyond halting work during restricted hours, employers were required to provide shaded rest areas, drinking water, and preventive measures for outdoor labourers. These guidelines have helped create a safer working environment for thousands of employees in construction, landscaping, and other outdoor industries.

Looking ahead.

With the easing of summer heat, work activities will return to regular hours. However, the midday break will continue to stand as a vital example of the UAE’s commitment to worker welfare and proactive occupational safety policies.