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UAE Midday Work Ban Starts June 15 as MoHRE Sets Dh50,000 Maximum Fine
By 19Network Editorial Team · Jun 4, 2026 · 2 min read
The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has mandated a midday work break from June 15 to September 15, with fines of up to Dh50,000 for non-compliant firms.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has announced that the annual midday work ban will officially begin on June 15. The mandatory policy prohibits any work performed under direct sunlight or in open-air spaces between 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM daily to protect workers from heat exhaustion during the summer months. Fines and Enforcement Measures The ban remains in effect until September 15, 2024. Companies found in violation of the regulations face administrative fines of Dh5,000 per worker. For establishments where multiple employees are found working during the restricted period, the total penalty can reach a maximum of Dh50,000. MoHRE confirmed that specialized inspection teams will conduct field visits to ensure nationwide compliance. In addition to the work stoppage, employers are required to provide shaded areas for staff during the break period. Firms must also display a clear schedule of daily working hours in Arabic and other languages understood by the workforce. The ministry mandates that all outdoor sites be equipped with adequate cooling devices, hydration supplies, and first aid kits to manage heat-related risks. Exemptions for Essential Services…