The United Arab Emirates will conclude its annual midday outdoor work ban on Tuesday, 15 September 2026, marking the end of the 22nd consecutive year this summer heat protection rule has been in effect. Starting Wednesday, 16 September, outdoor workers—including those in construction, delivery services, municipal roles, and site crews—are permitted to resume operations during the 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm window.
- Midday work ban ends on Tuesday, 15 September 2026
- Outdoor operations resume during 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm window starting 16 September
- Private-sector compliance remained above 99 per cent in 2026
Between 15 June and 15 September 2026, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) enforced the prohibition on work under direct sunlight and in open areas to mitigate risks of heat exhaustion and heatstroke as temperatures regularly surpassed 45°C. MoHRE reported that private-sector compliance throughout the 2026 season remained above 99 per cent. During the ban, employers were mandated to supply shaded rest areas, cooling equipment such as fans and misters, drinking water, electrolyte supplements, and first-aid facilities.
While the ban restricted most outdoor labor, limited exemptions remained in place for essential tasks, including asphalt laying, time-sensitive concrete pouring, emergency repairs to electricity, water, and traffic systems, and activities covered by special government permits. Fines for violations during the restricted period were set at Dh5,000 per worker, with a maximum penalty of Dh50,000 per company; these fines are no longer applicable after 15 September.
The UAE’s outdoor workforce, which includes large numbers of expatriates from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, and the Philippines, will now return to continuous daytime operations. This transition affects construction sites, landscaping projects, and last-mile delivery platforms that previously utilized 12,000 air-conditioned rest stations for riders during the midday pause. The Occupational Heat Stress Prevention Policy was first introduced in 2004 and is regarded by MoHRE as a fundamental occupational safety measure. Although the official ban is lifting, MoHRE and officials note that coastal humidity remains high and advise supervisors and workers to continue utilizing shade, hydration, and rest breaks as necessary.
