Managing Climate-Related Health Risks in Gulf Workplaces

Why employers in the GCC need proactive policies to protect employees from rising heat and environmental health challenges.

The Gulf region is no stranger to extreme weather. With scorching summers, frequent dust storms and increasingly variable air quality, employers across the GCC face mounting challenges to safeguard employee wellbeing. These climate-related risks are not just health concerns; they impact productivity, compliance and corporate reputation.

As temperatures continue to rise globally, Gulf-based employers must ask: How can we future-proof workplace health policies against climate risks?

The Climate Context in the GCC

The GCC regularly records some of the highest temperatures in the world, with summer highs surpassing 50°C in parts of the UAE and Saudi Arabia (Al-Monitor). According to the World Health Organization, exposure to extreme heat can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion and even life-threatening heatstroke (WHO).

Air quality adds another layer of risk. Dust and sandstorms are common in the region, leading to spikes in respiratory issues, allergies and asthma. Poor indoor ventilation can compound these problems, making both outdoor and office-based workers vulnerable.

Outdoor Workforce Risks & Regulations

Outdoor workers from construction crews and logistics staff to oil and gas field teams face the most direct impact from climate extremes. Heat-related illnesses can escalate quickly, particularly during peak summer months.

To mitigate this, governments in the region have introduced strict seasonal policies. For instance, the UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation enforces a midday work ban between 12:30 pm and 3:00 pm from June to September (MOHRE). Similar policies exist in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait, mandating shaded rest areas, hydration breaks and worker safety training.

Employers can go further by:

• Providing cooling stations and hydration packs.

• Training supervisors to recognize early signs of heat stress.

• Rotating shifts to limit prolonged outdoor exposure.

These measures are not only regulatory requirements but also vital for maintaining productivity and protecting company liability.

Indoor Workplace Considerations

It’s easy to assume office environments are insulated from climate risks. But indoor workspaces bring their own challenges:

• Dust infiltration: Sandstorms can significantly reduce indoor air quality.

• Ventilation issues: Over-reliance on air conditioning without adequate filtration can worsen respiratory conditions.

• Thermal comfort: Energy-saving measures or outdated HVAC systems may compromise safe indoor temperatures.

Employers can reduce risks by:

• Installing HEPA air filters to improve indoor air quality.

• Conducting regular air quality assessments during high-risk seasons.

• Offering flexible or remote work options during extreme weather events.

Corporate Health Insurance & Climate Risks

Health insurance plays a pivotal role in mitigating climate-related health challenges. A robust corporate health plan can cover:

• Emergency treatment for heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

• Respiratory care services for conditions triggered by poor air quality.

• Access to telehealth platforms ensures employees can seek medical advice without unnecessary exposure to harsh conditions.

Forward-thinking employers in the GCC are also looking at preventative care benefits such as regular health screenings and wellness initiatives to reduce climate-related risks before they escalate.

Future-Proofing with Policy & Innovation

Protecting employees from climate risks requires long-term thinking. Companies can adopt proactive strategies to build resilience, including:

1. Employee Awareness Campaigns

   Regular training on hydration, recognizing signs of heat stress, and steps to take during dust storms.

   
   

2. Technology Integration

   Wearables that monitor hydration levels, heart rate, and body temperature can alert workers to early signs of heat strain.

   
   

3. Sustainable Workplaces

   Designing greener, energy-efficient buildings with advanced ventilation reduces environmental strain while improving employee health.

   
   

4. Partnerships with Healthcare Providers

   Collaborating with insurers like GulfCare allows businesses to tailor plans that address environmental health risks specific to the region.

A Shared Responsibility

The International Labour Organization (ILO) emphasises that employers have a “duty of care” to protect workers from foreseeable risks, including those posed by climate change (ILO). In the Gulf, where climate extremes are a reality, this responsibility is both a moral and business imperative.

Employees who feel protected and supported are more engaged, more productive and more loyal. By integrating climate-related health strategies into workplace policies, companies not only safeguard their workforce but also strengthen their employer brand.

Final Thoughts

Climate change is no longer a distant challenge; it is a daily reality in Gulf workplaces. Employers must adapt by implementing robust health and safety measures, upgrading workplace infrastructure and ensuring comprehensive health insurance coverage.

By investing in employee protection today, GCC businesses will be better positioned to thrive in tomorrow’s climate.

Choosing a corporate healthcare partner like GulfCare ensures your policies are designed with these regional realities in mind, protecting your people wherever they work.