The UAE's mandatory midday break for outdoor workers will come into force on June 15

The UAE will implement a mandated noon break on June 15 for outdoor employees, the government said on Thursday. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization spearheads the yearly effort, which tries to shield workers from the hottest part of the summer. The rule, which is in effect until September 15, forbids anyone from working in public areas between noon and three o'clock. Companies who violate the guidelines may be subject to penalties of up to Dh50,000.

The government originally announced the plan in 2004. To safeguard the security of their employees, businesses must abide by severe rules laid down by the law. They are required to give workers a place to relax in the shade during breaks and their regular working hours, whether they are working morning, evening, or both shifts, which cannot last longer than eight hours. A staff member will be considered to have worked overtime if they put in more than eight hours.

According to the government, some jobs are excluded from the rules since they cannot allow for such vacations. These include personnel doing crucial repairs or undertaking tasks that cause disruptions to the delivery of utilities like water and electricity. Employers are obligated to supply enough cool water for the workforce, vetted meals, and make sure first aid supplies are available in such situations.

Employers that violate the law face a punishment of Dh5,000 per worker, with a maximum fine of Dh50,000. The ministry advised the general public to contact its call centre at 600 590 000 to report any violations of the noon break rules.