UAE midday break comes into force

The midday break, which restricts outdoor work for construction and others between 12:30 pm and 3:00 pm, is in force until September 15.

It's the 18th year the summer break has been implemented by the Ministry of Human Resoucrces and Emiratisation (MOHRE).

Companies that don’t comply with the rule could face fines ranging between AED 5,000 and AED 50,000.

This worker, who spoke to ARN News, said the break is a major relief.

Members of the public can report any suspected violation of the rule through the Ministry's call centre on 600 590000, open from Monday to Saturday from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm and available in several languages. Reports can also be filed through the Ministry's smart application.

Some professions and jobs are exempted from the break if work is required to continue uninterrupted for technical reasons.

Tasks that are not bound by the ruling include spreading asphalt or pouring concrete and vital repair work on electricity, water and telecommunication services, gas or oil pipelines or major traffic issues.

For these workers, employers must provide cold drinking water and hydrating food and liquid such as salt, lemon and other options approved for use by the local authorities in the country.

In addition, companies should keep first-aid kits on the work site, appropriate industrial cooling facilities and provide shade from direct sunlight, and  a shaded place for workers to rest during downtime.

Employers are also required to post the schedule of daily working hours in a prominent place in accordance with the provisions of the ban, provided that it is in a language that the worker understands, in addition to Arabic.

Midday break comes into force tomorrow.#WamNews https://t.co/kTqNQgKFqS pic.twitter.com/KxTdF396YO

— WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) June 14, 2022