The UAE will enforce a midday break from June 15 to September 15, 2024, for the 20th consecutive year. The break prohibits work under direct sunlight and in open-air areas between 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM.
Employers violating the midday break will face a fine of Dh5,000 per employee, up to a maximum of Dh50,000 if multiple employees are found working during the restricted hours. Employers must provide parasols, shaded areas, fans, sufficient drinking water, and first aid equipment for employees working in direct sunlight.
"The midday break ensures the health and safety of workers, a valuable resource for any company," said Mohsin Al Nassi, Assistant Undersecretary for Inspection Affairs at the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).
The ministry will launch awareness campaigns and conduct field visits to work sites to ensure compliance with the midday break regulations.