UAE Summer Initiatives Emphasise Strong Commitment To Worker Welfare And Rights

The UAE is experiencing a rise in humanitarian efforts this summer to safeguard outdoor workers from heat stress. This reflects the commitment of Emirati society, including both individuals and institutions, to ensuring workers' safety, welfare, and rights. Various initiatives are being implemented to provide relief from the intense heat.

Efforts include setting up air-conditioned shelters, offering cold drinks, ice cream, and full meals. Additionally, sunglasses and sunscreen are distributed, alongside awareness campaigns about the risks of heat exhaustion. These programmes highlight the UAE's ethical values and its success in embedding worker protection into its social fabric.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has established over 10,000 air-conditioned rest areas nationwide. These facilities cater to delivery workers during the midday work ban from 15th June to 15th September each year. This initiative is a collaboration between government bodies and the private sector.

The General Women’s Union continues its "Suqia, Fatima bint Mubarak" initiative throughout July, August, and September. It provides water, juices, dates, umbrellas, and other heat protection items to thousands of workers in Abu Dhabi. This effort underscores the community's dedication to worker welfare.

In Al Ain, Abu Dhabi Police launched an initiative at construction sites in partnership with First Abu Dhabi Bank. They distribute water, sunglasses, and sunscreen to workers. This initiative aims to protect those working under harsh conditions from the adverse effects of extreme temperatures.

Collaborative Efforts Across Organisations

Supported by Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), Ferjan Dubai collaborates with the UAE Water Aid Foundation (Suqia) and the UAE Food Bank. Together they have distributed 2 million bottles of cold water, juices, and frozen treats across Dubai. The campaign targets cleaning staff, construction workers, delivery drivers, road crews, and landscapers.

The Emirates Red Crescent’s Ajman centre initiated a humanitarian effort by distributing water and cold juices to over 600 workers in public spaces. Meanwhile, "Beit Al Khair Society" joined MOHRE's midday work ban campaign by providing 550 meals with cold water and juices at various sites.

This collective action demonstrates a strong sense of solidarity within the community. It showcases how different sectors come together to ensure worker safety during challenging summer months.

With inputs from WAM