Beat the Heat: UAE Temperatures Hit 46°C as Dusty Winds and Midday Break Continue
The United Arab Emirates is experiencing intense heat today, with temperatures reaching up to 46°C. Here are the key updates you need to know:
- Internal areas will reach between 42°C and 46°C, while coastal and island areas will see 39°C to 44°C.
- Dubai is forecast to hit 42°C, Abu Dhabi 44°C, Sharjah 43°C, Ras Al Khaimah 44°C, and Liwa up to 46°C.
- Mountainous regions will see temperatures between 30°C and 36°C.
- Hazy weather and blowing dust have reduced visibility across Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
- The midday break rule remains in effect until September 15.
Temperature and Weather Conditions
According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), internal areas are expected to reach between 42°C and 46°C, while coastal and island areas will see temperatures ranging from 39°C to 44°C. Specifically, Dubai is forecast to hit 42°C, Abu Dhabi 44°C, Sharjah 43°C, Ras Al Khaimah 44°C, and the Liwa desert region up to 46°C. Mountainous regions will see temperatures between 30°C and 36°C. Hazy weather and blowing dust have reduced visibility across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Winds are blowing at 10 to 25 km/h, with gusts reaching up to 35 km/h, creating risks for drivers on highways, industrial zones, and desert-side roads. Drivers are advised to maintain safe distances, avoid sudden lane changes, and reduce speed in dusty patches. Humidity in coastal areas may reach up to 85%, increasing the physical impact of heat. The NCM forecasts that as the week progresses, increased humidity during the night and early morning may lead to mist or fog in coastal and internal areas, requiring motorists to stay alert for fluctuating visibility conditions.
Occupational Heat Stress Prevention Policy and Midday Break
The UAE's Occupational Heat Stress Prevention Policy, which mandates a daily midday break from 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. for outdoor workers, remains in effect until September 15. This rule applies to sectors including construction, delivery services, road maintenance, logistics, cleaning, and landscaping. Employers are required to provide shaded rest areas, cooling, drinking water, and first-aid at worksites. Exemptions from the midday break are permitted only for technical or public safety requirements, such as asphalt laying, concrete pouring, or emergency repairs to water and electricity supplies. Even in these cases, employers must ensure worker safety with water, shade, and cooling. For delivery riders, who face unique challenges due to protective gear and shifting locations, companies are encouraged to provide air-conditioned rest stations. Workers may report violations of the midday break policy to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) by calling 600590000 or via the official app and website.