Still required to work on-site amid rain, some UAE employees put 'life at risk' for others

UAE private sector

In the wake of heavy rainfall and unstable weather conditions in the UAE, private sector employees find themselves grappling with the dilemma of ensuring their safety while meeting work obligations. Despite recommendations from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) to prioritize employees' safety, many workers are still required to commute to their offices, putting their lives at risk.

A recent poll conducted by Khaleej Times revealed that 56% of respondents employed in the private sector were mandated to attend work in person despite the hazardous weather. This statistic underscores the challenges faced by employees who are forced to navigate through treacherous conditions to fulfill their professional duties.

Individual accounts from affected employees shed light on the severity of the situation. Khider Adil, an employee in Abu Dhabi, made the decision to work from home to avoid endangering himself and others on the road. His reluctance to commute in hazardous weather reflects the genuine concern for personal safety shared by many.

Similarly, Shaima Abou Alsaad, an architect residing in Sharjah, highlighted the difficulties faced by professionals whose roles require in-person interactions. While acknowledging the necessity of physical presence for certain job functions, Shaima advocated for flexibility in the private sector to accommodate adverse weather conditions.

However, not all professions afford the luxury of remote work. Mahra A, employed in the private healthcare sector, emphasized the indispensability of physical presence in delivering essential services. For individuals like Mahra, working remotely is not a viable option, underscoring the nuanced challenges faced by different industries.

Social media platforms have served as an outlet for disgruntled employees to voice their concerns. Posts documenting the perilous commute to work amidst heavy rain underscore the urgency of the situation. The disparity between remote work policies in the private and public sectors has become a focal point of discussion, prompting calls for equitable treatment of all employees.

As meteorological authorities issue warnings of continued rainfall, private sector employees find themselves caught between professional obligations and personal safety. The story of George T, a sales executive torn between meeting targets and prioritizing safety, epitomizes the difficult choices faced by many workers.

While remote work arrangements have been widely adopted in government entities, exceptions exist for roles that necessitate physical presence. Individuals like Hisham, tasked with critical responsibilities such as fire safety operations, understand the importance of being onsite despite adverse weather conditions.

As the UAE grapples with the aftermath of heavy rainfall, the plight of private sector employees underscores the need for comprehensive workplace policies that prioritize employee well-being. Moving forward, it is imperative for employers to reassess their approach to remote work and implement measures that safeguard the health and safety of their workforce.