Qatar and Bahrain have activated annual summer midday work bans to protect outdoor workers from extreme heat, as Gulf countries strengthen labour safety measures amid rising temperatures and growing climate-related risks.
The restrictions, which apply to construction workers and other employees exposed to direct sunlight, are part of wider efforts across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) to reduce heat-related illnesses and workplace accidents during the peak summer season.
Qatar Begins Heat Stress Protection Measures from June 1
Qatar’s Ministry of Labour announced the implementation of Ministerial Decision No. 17 of 2021, which focuses on protecting workers from heat stress during the hottest months of the year.
The regulation took effect on June 1 and will remain in force until September 15. During this period, employers must halt outdoor work between 10:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. every day.
The ministry said the decision forms part of the country’s broader strategy to provide a safe working environment and improve occupational health standards. Authorities also urged employers to adopt preventive measures and ensure workers receive adequate protection from heat-related health risks.
In an official statement, the ministry said the regulation aims to safeguard workers from heat stress and strengthen workplace safety throughout the summer season.
Bahrain Introduces Midday Outdoor Work Ban from June 15
Meanwhile, Bahrain will begin enforcing its annual summer work ban on June 15. The restrictions will remain in place until August 31.
Under the rules, employers cannot assign outdoor work in direct sunlight between 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. The government introduced the measure to reduce cases of heat exhaustion, sunstroke, dehydration and other weather-related occupational hazards.
Officials said the annual ban has become an important component of Bahrain’s worker welfare programme, particularly as summer temperatures continue to rise across the region.
Bahrain Warns Employers of Strict Penalties for Violations
Bahraini authorities have also issued a strong warning to companies that fail to comply with the regulations.
Under Article 192 of Bahrain’s Labour Law in the Private Sector, employers who violate the midday work ban may face imprisonment for up to three months, fines ranging from BD500 to BD1,000 (approximately $1,326 to $2,653), or both penalties.
The government said strict enforcement is necessary to ensure compliance and maintain safe working conditions during the summer months.
Gulf Countries Expand Worker Protection Measures
The latest announcements reflect a broader regional trend as Gulf governments adopt stronger safeguards against extreme weather conditions.
Recently, Kuwait introduced restrictions on delivery motorcycles during peak daytime summer hours. Similarly, the UAE and Oman have expanded safety measures for delivery riders and outdoor workers exposed to intense heat.
These initiatives highlight growing concerns about worker welfare as climate conditions become increasingly challenging across the Middle East.
Rising Temperatures Push Governments to Strengthen Climate Resilience
Beyond labour protection, Gulf countries are also focusing on wider climate resilience strategies. Higher temperatures continue to place significant pressure on electricity demand, transportation networks and public infrastructure.
As a result, governments across the region are combining worker safety policies with broader heat management and sustainability initiatives.
With another intense summer underway, authorities in Qatar, Bahrain and neighbouring Gulf states are signalling a stronger commitment to protecting workers while adapting to the realities of a warming climate.
