UAE Clarifies When Commute Time Counts as Working Hours - 89.1 Radio 4 FM

The UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has outlined the exact situations in which commute time may be counted as part of an employee’s official working hours during unstable weather. Normally, travel between home and the workplace is not considered paid work time. However, the Ministry confirmed three specific exceptions where it must be recognised:

Adverse Weather Conditions
If the National Center of Meteorology issues alerts for severe or unstable weather—such as heavy rain, thunderstorms or safety warnings—commute time during these conditions may be counted as working hours.
Delays in Employer-Provided Transport
If an employee faces delays because of a traffic accident or unexpected breakdown while travelling in transport arranged by the employer, that period qualifies as working hours.
Contractual Agreement
If the employment contract explicitly states that commute time counts as part of working hours, the employer must honour it.

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