MoHRE concludes 2026 Occupational Heat Stress Prevention Policy

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation reports broad compliance with this year’s heat-stress campaign, citing public reporting channels, over 12,000 rest stations and strengthened digital oversight.

MoHRE confirms policy close‑out and results

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has announced the conclusion of its 2026 Occupational Heat Stress Prevention Policy. Dalal Al Shehhi, Assistant Under‑Secretary for Labour Protection at MoHRE, said the year’s implementation reaffirmed high levels of awareness, partnership and social responsibility among private sector companies and highlighted the respect afforded to the workforce.

MoHRE said the campaign reflects its continued efforts to promote a safe, healthy and sustainable working environment and to improve workers’ quality of life and wellbeing, in line with the UAE’s vision to build a competitive and flexible labour market.

Policy outcomes and operational measures

The Ministry reported collaboration with government and private partners and with community initiatives during the campaign. It said more than 12,000 rest stations equipped with essential amenities were provided across the UAE, available to delivery workers and other employees during working hours.

MoHRE highlighted the role of public reporting channels, which were offered free to community members to notify authorities of potential violations that might endanger workers’ health and safety. The Ministry also emphasised its increasing use of digital solutions and data to improve monitoring efficiency and strengthen compliance.

Al Shehhi noted that this approach is shifting oversight from a purely reactive model to one focused on prevention, using smart oversight and partnerships to address evolving working environments and sectoral requirements.

Regulatory scope and employer obligations

The Occupational Heat Stress Prevention Policy prohibits work under direct sunlight and in open‑air locations between 12:30 and 15:00 from 15 June to 15 September each year. Exemptions apply for roles that cannot be suspended for technical reasons and for work necessary to prevent hazards or to repair faults affecting the community and essential services, in accordance with approved regulations.

The policy obliges employers to provide suitable shaded rest areas, cooling equipment, sufficient drinking water and hydration supplies, and first‑aid equipment at worksites. These measures are intended to mitigate the risks of heat stress and raise occupational health and safety standards across sectors.

MoHRE said it will continue to develop its occupational health and safety framework through awareness, prevention, smart oversight and stakeholder partnerships to maintain protection for workers as working conditions evolve.

Source: WAM