Introduction
MOHRE requires every private-sector employer in the UAE to provide a safe and healthy work environment under the labor relations law. This applies not only to factories but to offices, restaurants, warehouses and any establishment that employs workers.
The Regulator & Legal Framework
The federal framework is led by MOHRE, while the Emirate of Abu Dhabi applies the OSHAD framework (EHSMS) as an additional layer. Facilities operating in Abu Dhabi must comply with both.
Detailed Requirements
- Appoint a qualified OSH officer sized to the activity risk.
- Conduct and document a risk assessment for every task and workplace.
- Provide appropriate PPE to workers free of charge.
- Train workers on safety before starting and periodically.
- Observe the midday work ban during summer months.
- Provide first aid and an emergency plan.
Requirements Table
| Requirement | Authority | Mandatory | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Qualified OSH officer | MOHRE / OSHAD | Yes | Scaled to activity |
| Documented risk assessment | OSHAD | Yes | Reviewed periodically |
| Personal protective equipment | MOHRE | Yes | Free to worker |
| Midday work ban | MOHRE | Yes (summer) | Heavy fines on breach |
Common Mistakes & Penalties
Frequent violations: missing risk assessments, no PPE, and ignoring the midday ban. Fines range from thousands to tens of thousands of dirhams and can include activity suspension.
Practical Compliance Tips
Start with a thorough risk assessment, document everything, and train your team regularly. Make safety part of the facility culture, not just paperwork.
Explore the full Occupational Safety & Health sector, or use the compliance calculator.
%2C%20flat%20vector%20illustration%20style%2C%20no%20gradients%2C%20bold%20clean%20outlines%2C%20color%20palette%20strictly%20golden%20%23D7BC6D%20beige%20cream%20white%2C%20red%20only%20on%20fire%20safety%20objects%2C%20no%20text%20no%20letters%20no%20numbers%2C%20no%20people%2C%20white%20or%20beige%20background%2C%20professional%20infographic%20aesthetic%2C%20simple%20shapes%2C%20high%20contrast?width=1200&height=630&model=flux&nologo=true&seed=226831)