Wednesday, 27 May 2026
Saudi Arabia and UAE ban outdoor work during midday summer hours
Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have announced the reimplementation of annual regulations prohibiting outdoor work during peak midday hours this summer, aiming to safeguard workers from the health risks associated with extreme heat.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development will enforce the ban from June 15 to September 15, 2025. During this period, outdoor work will be prohibited throughout the Kingdom from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The initiative, introduced in collaboration with the National Center for Occupational Safety and Health, is designed to promote worker safety and prevent heat-related illnesses.
Minister Ahmad bin Sulaiman Al-Rajhi noted on social media that the ministry is committed to ensuring safe and healthy work environments in line with international standards, adding that the ministry will monitor compliance through inspections and will receive reports of violations via dedicated hotlines and online platforms.
Similarly, the UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation will implement its midday break rule for the 21st year from June 15 to September 15. Outdoor work is prohibited between 12:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m., with over 99% compliance recorded in previous years.
Authorities in both countries are conducting field inspections to enforce the bans, and the UAE has commended private sector companies for creating shaded rest areas and providing workers with fans, water, hydration materials, and first aid supplies.
The ban includes exceptions for urgent or essential tasks such as road repairs, asphalt and concrete work, and emergency maintenance of water, electricity, and traffic services, provided special government permits are obtained.
In the UAE, employers found violating the regulation face fines of 5,000 dirhams (approximately $1,360 USD) per worker, with cumulative fines up to 50,000 dirhams for multiple violations.
Both Saudi Arabia and the UAE reaffirm their commitment to protecting laborers from summer heat, promoting worker well-being, and upholding high standards for occupational health and safety.