UAE government’s order, if work is done in the afternoon, heavy fine will be imposed, the cost can be up to 50,000 dirhams

To protect from the scorching heat in UAE, the government has made the rules for midday break more strict. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has clearly said that companies violating the rules will have to pay heavy fines. This step has been taken to protect the workers from diseases caused by sunlight and heat.

MoHRE has revised its annual rules for 2026. Under this, it is completely prohibited to work in direct sunlight and open areas between 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm from June 15 to September 15. This rule is designed to protect workers from heatstroke and other heat-related diseases.

Complete information about fine

If any company breaks these rules, strict action will be taken against it. The amount of fine is as follows:

• For one worker: Fine of 5,000 dirhams.
• On repeated violations: The total fine can go up to 50,000 dirhams.

Apart from money, new work permits of companies can also be stopped and their grading in MoHRE’s system can also be reduced. Legal action will also be taken in serious cases.

Convenience for delivery riders

The government has clarified that delivery riders also come under the purview of this rule. They cannot be forced to work in the afternoon. For the convenience of the riders, more than 12,000 air-conditioned (AC) rest areas have been created across the country, where they can take rest during this break.

Company Responsibilities and Exemptions

It is important for employers to provide their employees with shaded areas, cool drinking water, fans and first-aid kits. Work timings will have to be changed so that outside work can be completed in cooler weather.

Some very important works are exempted from this rule, such as:

• Asphalt paving and concrete pouring work.
• Emergency repair of essential services like electricity, water and telecom.
• Important work related to traffic and security.

The companies which have got exemption will also have to completely follow all the rules regarding health and safety of the workers.