Midday break ban on outdoor work returns — all UAE employers — June 15 to September 15
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has reinstated the Occupational Heat Stress Prevention Policy, banning work under direct sunlight and in open areas from 12:30pm to 3pm daily between June 15 and September 15. The ban applies to all UAE employers except those with government-approved exemptions (asphalt laying, concrete pouring, essential service repairs).
The analysis — automated & source-checked
- Applies to
- Labour · UAE
- What to do
- Ensure all outdoor work sites comply with the 12:30pm–3pm ban from June 15. If your work qualifies for exemption, obtain the required permit and provide mandatory worker protections (shaded areas, cooling equipment, water, first aid). Report violations to MoHRE on 600590000.
This is the 22nd consecutive year of the midday break policy. Exempted activities include work that cannot be interrupted for technical reasons, work to prevent hazards or repair essential services (water, electricity, traffic), and activities requiring permits from competent authorities. Companies must report compliance violations to MoHRE's call centre (600590000), website, or smart application. Recent compliance rates exceed 99 per cent.
Source
“Work under direct sunlight and in open areas will be banned across the UAE from 12.30pm to 3pm daily between June 15 and September 15, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has announced.”
— Khaleej Times, 8 Jun 2026
Reported by: Khaleej Times 8 Jun 2026 Read the original ↗ More from Khaleej Times →
Quick answers
What do I need to do?
Ensure all outdoor work sites comply with the 12:30pm–3pm ban from June 15. If your work qualifies for exemption, obtain the required permit and provide mandatory worker protections (shaded areas, cooling equipment, water, first aid). Report violations to MoHRE on 600590000.
What was the deadline?
15 Jun 2026 — this deadline has passed.
Who reported this?
Khaleej Times (UAE).
When was it announced?
8 Jun 2026.
Where can I read the original?
Read the original at Khaleej Times: https://www.khaleejtimes.com/uae/uae-midday-break-starts-june-15-work-under-direct-sunlight-banned-during-peak-afternoon-hours
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