Ajman to install tents outside mosques to protect worshippers from summer heat

The directive was made by Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi , the Crown Prince of Ajman

Large tents are being installed outside mosques in Ajman to offer workers protection against the sun. Courtesy: Wam

The Crown Prince of Ajman will pay for tents to be installed outside of mosques in the emirate to offer worshippers welcome respite from the intense summer sunshine.

Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi ordered the General Authority for Islamic Affairs and Endowments to provide the coverings at his expense.

Temperatures regularly exceed 40°C during the summer months across the Emirate, while humidity levels also soar during the season.

The move will protect worshippers from the searing heat, particularly during morning and afternoon prayers.

Obaid Hamad Al Zaabi, branch director of the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments Office in Ajman, expressed his support for the initiative.

Authorities in the UAE already have measures in place to safeguard those working outside during the sweltering summer.

A midday break for outdoor workers was first introduced by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation in 2004.

The law sets strict guidelines for employers to follow to ensure the safety of their workforce.

This year's break runs from June 15 until September 15.

Under the regulations, all work performed in the open air is banned between the hours of 12:30pm and 3pm.

Each summer, employers are required to provide workers with a shaded area to rest during the hottest hours of the day.

Companies are exempt if their work must continue during these hours, for example while repairing damaged water or petrol pipes.

However, employers who are exempt from the midday break hours must provide cool drinking water as well as items such as salt and lemons for their workers in accordance with health and safety regulations.

Companies that break the rules face fines of Dh5,000 ($1,360) per worker, or up to a maximum of Dh50,000. Depending on the severity of the breach, the company could also have its status downgraded by the ministry.