MoHRE Enforces 2025 Midday Break
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has confirmed the continuation of its Midday Break initiative for the 21st consecutive year, aimed at safeguarding workers’ health during the summer. The break will be enforced from June 15 to September 15, 2025, and prohibits work in direct sunlight and open-air spaces between 12:30 pm and 3:00 pm.
This initiative reflects the UAE’s commitment to maintaining a safe working environment by adhering to international health and safety standards. It helps prevent heat-related illnesses and injuries, particularly in high-temperature conditions during the summer months.
According to Mohsin Ali Al Nassi, Assistant Undersecretary for Inspection & Compliance at MoHRE, the Midday Break has maintained an impressive compliance rate of over 99% for several years. This success demonstrates strong social responsibility values within the UAE’s private sector, with companies increasingly aware of the importance of protecting workers, their most valuable asset.
Dalal Alshehhi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Labour Protection at MoHRE, emphasized the collaborative efforts between the Ministry, private companies, and the community to support workers during the Midday Break. Many companies have also created dedicated rest areas for workers, ensuring comfort and safety while they take their break. Alshehhi encouraged more companies to follow suit to enhance worker health and improve productivity.
The regulations also require businesses to provide shaded areas, cooling equipment, drinking water, and electrolytes to help workers stay hydrated. Exemptions are in place for certain public-interest tasks, such as asphalt laying or concrete pouring, which cannot be delayed. Other exceptions include critical maintenance or emergency work, like addressing water or electricity disruptions.
To ensure compliance, MoHRE will monitor companies throughout the period, and violations will incur fines of AED 5,000 per worker, up to a maximum of AED 50,000. The Ministry encourages the public to report any violations through its call center, website, or mobile app.
The Midday Break is part of the UAE’s broader vision of fostering a humanitarian work environment, supporting the wellbeing of workers from over 200 nationalities, and aligning with the nation’s long-term goals as set out in the “We the UAE 2031” vision.
