59 UAE companies caught violating mid-day break rule

A total of 59 companies have been caught violating the UAE mid-day break rule, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) announced on Tuesday, adding that 130 workers were involved in these breaches.

The rule, which came into effect this year on June 15, bans work under direct sunlight from 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the ministry commended what it called the "deep commitment of most establishments" to the mid-day break, which runs until September 15.

"We have conducted more than 67,000 inspection visits to establishments from June 15 to August 17, and over 28,000 guidance visits," the ministry added. 

The summer mid-day break is now in its 19th year, with employers required to provide workers with umbrellas and cooling equipment during their rest time, such as fans, cold drinking water, authorised hydrated salts and appropriate amenities.

Mohsen Al Nassi, Assistant Undersecretary for Inspection Affairs at the Ministry, said, "The Midday Break is part of a series of solid measures taken by MoHRE to protect workers' rights and provide all conditions and components of occupational safety and health."

MoHRE called on community members and workers to report any violations by contacting its call centre at 600590000 or through the MoHRE app and website.

MoHRE commends the "deep commitment of most establishments" to the working hours and procedures of the Midday Break, which bans work under direct sunlight from 12:30 pm to 3 pm between 15th June to 15th September#WamNews https://t.co/sydR4isDud pic.twitter.com/OsSXf9fkYj

— WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) August 29, 2023