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UAE to enforce midday work ban from June 15, fines up to Dh50,000 fine for violators

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As the summer temperature in the UAE peaks, the country is once again putting worker welfare front and centre. For the 21st consecutive year, the authorities are putting a ban on midday work, part of a national effort to ensure outdoor workers stay safe from the harsh midday sun and heat-related health risks.

From June 15 to September 15, working under direct sunlight is strictly prohibited between 12:30pm and 3:00pm. This long-standing initiative supports the UAE’s commitment to international occupational health and safety standards.

“Compliance has reached over 99% in recent years,” said Mohsen Al Nasi, Assistant Undersecretary for Inspection and Compliance at the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). He also confirmed that violators face fines starting at Dh5,000 per worker, up to Dh50,000 in cases involving multiple breaches.

The Ministry is ramping up inspections and awareness campaigns, including on-site visits and outreach to workers’ accommodations, to ensure companies are aligned with safety requirements. The initiative helps prevent heatstroke, dehydration, and other serious health issues, especially for those in construction and fieldwork.

More Than Just Rules — It’s a National Ethos

Dalal Al Shehhi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for the Labour Protection Sector, praised the strong collaboration between the government, private sector, and the community, calling the initiative a “model of social responsibility” that aligns with the “We the UAE 2031” vision.

Many private firms are setting up shaded rest areas, cooling stations, and hydration facilities for their workers.

What Employers Must Provide During the Ban

  • Shaded rest areas
  • Cooling equipment (fans, coolers, etc.)
  • Ample drinking water and electrolytes
  • First aid kits on site
  • Permits for essential or urgent work

Who’s Exempt?
Certain technical or emergency works that cannot be delayed, such as laying asphalt, pouring concrete, or repairing water, electricity, and traffic systems, are allowed but must be licensed by relevant authorities.

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

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Don’t cross here: Abu Dhabi Police issue fresh warning

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Pedestrians in Abu Dhabi are being reminded to use designated bridges, tunnels and crossings to stay safe and help reduce road accidents, according to Abu Dhabi Police.

The advisory comes as part of GCC Traffic Week 2026, held under the theme “I Cross Safely,” which focuses on improving road safety awareness across the region.

Officials warned that crossing roads from undesignated areas remains a high-risk behaviour, putting both pedestrians and drivers in danger, especially on busy roads where vehicles may not be able to stop in time.

Pedestrian crossings in place

Authorities highlighted that the UAE’s road network includes well-equipped pedestrian bridges, tunnels and marked crossings, designed to ensure safe and smooth movement across major roads.

Shared responsibility

Police are urging residents and visitors alike to follow traffic rules and act responsibly, stressing that road safety depends on collective efforts from both pedestrians and motorists.

For residents, the message is simple: use the right crossing points to stay safe and avoid unnecessary risks.

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US issues advisory in UAE after security alerts

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The US Mission to the UAE has advised American expats in the country to remain alert following warnings of potential aerial threats.

The guidance comes after alerts issued by the UAE Ministry of Interior, with officials confirming that recent aerial threats were successfully intercepted.

A Level 3 Reconsider Travel advisory from the US Department of State remains in place, urging citizens to exercise increased caution while in the country.

Embassy operations continue with adjustments

The US Embassy Abu Dhabi and Consulate in Dubai remain open but are operating with reduced staffing under an ordered departure status, with non-essential personnel temporarily relocated.

Routine visa services are currently suspended, although emergency consular services remain available.

What US expats should know?

Authorities have encouraged citizens to stay informed through official channels and be prepared to follow safety instructions if needed, including temporary shelter-in-place measures.

Precautionary advice includes:

  • Staying away from windows during incidents
  • Keeping basic emergency supplies ready
  • Maintaining communication with family members

Officials say the situation is being closely monitored, with further updates expected as needed. UAE authorities have emphasised that response systems are active and effective, with safety remaining a top priority.

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Pakistan restores passport services in UAE after 8-day disruption

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Passport services at Pakistani missions in the UAE have resumed, bringing relief to thousands of expats affected by a recent outage.

The Consulate General of Pakistan and Embassy of Pakistan confirmed that passport services are now fully operational as of Tuesday, May 5.

The disruption, which lasted around eight days, was caused by a technical fault at the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports (DGI & P) headquarters in Islamabad, leading to a temporary suspension of passport services at missions abroad from April 29.

What should applicants do now?

Officials have advised applicants to visit embassies and consulates during designated service hours to complete passport applications and renewals.

Wider impact across the Gulf

The outage affected Pakistani missions across multiple countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman and Kuwait, leaving many unable to process documents during the disruption.

Pakistanis expats can now move forward, easing pressure for those needing urgent travel or documentation.

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