UAE weather alert: what private sector employees need to know today
After a public UAE weather alert was issued at 8.30am on Wednesday, December 18, rainfall began rolling in by early afternoon. By evening, further warnings were sent as conditions shifted across parts of the UAE. Here’s what today’s conditions mean for private sector employees across the UAE.
The latest update from MoHRE
In a recent announcement, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) urged private sector companies in the most affected areas to implement remote work on Friday, December 19. It’s an advisory, not a strict order, but the message is clear: safety comes first. Employers are encouraged to stay mindful of weather conditions and adapt working arrangements where needed.
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Is remote work mandatory for the private sector?
There is no automatic rule that forces private companies to switch to remote work during unstable weather. However, authorities consistently encourage flexibility, especially when conditions make commuting risky. Legal experts say that since the extreme rainfall and flooding in April 2024, weather warnings are no longer brushed off. Heavy rain forecasts now trigger serious conversations around travel disruption and employee wellbeing.
Why employers are encouraged to stay flexible
Experts agree that employers have a duty of care at all times, and that responsibility increases during severe weather. With accurate forecasts and official alerts widely available, companies are expected to respond sensibly. For many, that means activating work-from-home policies, adjusting hours or allowing late starts to ease commuting pressure.
What about jobs that can’t be done from home?
Remote work isn’t possible for everyone. Healthcare, hospitality, retail and site-based roles still need people on the ground. In these cases, employers are expected to take extra precautions. The risks don’t end when the rain stops either. Flooded roads, waterlogged areas and disrupted public transport can linger long after the clouds clear.
Why many companies are already ready
The shift to flexible working during COVID changed how many UAE businesses operate. Laptops, secure systems and online tools mean a large number of roles can now be done remotely, even at short notice. Since last year’s floods, many companies have refined their adverse weather plans, switching to remote work as soon as official alerts are issued.
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