UAE midday break begins - Fines, overtime rules

The ban on work in selected sectors from 12.30pm to 3pm will begin on June 15, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation announced on Wednesday.

The ban will be in place till September 15, the ministry said.

The midday break rule has been put in place in the UAE to protect workers in certain sectors like construction from the extreme heat during the summer months.

The annual decision means that employers must provide their labour force with shaded areas to rest during the break period.

Over the past week, temperatures peaked to 47-49 degrees Celsius in various emirates.

Total working hours – for both morning and evening shifts – are not allowed to exceed eight hours. Any worker who exceeds the eight hour time limit is owed overtime pay.

Companies that are required to continue work for technical reasons are exempt from the restrictions. Such cases include the asphalting of roads and repairing damage to sewage pipes or disconnected electrical lines.

Employers are also required to provide the necessary amount of drinking water, as well as any first-aid equipment and other safety items.

Failure to comply with the regulations will result in fines of AED 5,000 per worker, with a maximum of AED 50,000. Additionally, companies will also have their file suspended or their status downgraded by the ministry’s classification system.

The ministry has also encouraged UAE residents to report any violations to its hotline at 80060.