UAE: Portable ACs for mourners at Al Ain cemeteries during extreme heat

Khaleej Times

01-07-2025

As summer temperatures soar to a scorching 50°C in the UAE, authorities are ramping up efforts to ease the discomfort for residents in the country.
To help alleviate the heat of attendees during funeral services, Al Ain City Municipality has provided portable air conditioners at cemeteries. The coolers have been placed in key cemeteries across Al Ain, including Al Sarooj Cemetery, to provide relief to grieving families.
This initiative aims to ensure a more comfortable and respectful environment, reaffirming the Municipality's commitment to community well-being and the quality of its public services.
An Emirati citizen recently shared his experience on Instagram during a visit to Al Sarooj Cemetery, where he was surprised to see the coolers. "I went to visit my father's grave and noticed several large air coolers. I initially thought the family of a deceased person had arranged them," he said.
"But the guard explained that the coolers were provided by Al Ain Municipality, free of charge, to make it easier for people to bear the heat during funeral prayers," he added.
The visitor expressed his appreciation for the gesture, stating, "Thank God for the blessings of the Emirates and the generosity of its wise leadership."
Other summer-related initiatives
The UAE addresses heat-related issues with initiatives like the midday break, which prohibits outdoor work during the hottest hours of the day. This break, introduced to protect workers during the country's peak summer heat, will be from 12.30pm to 3pm daily for three months until September 15.
There are nation-wide campaigns focused on heat exhaustion awareness and worker safety, including free health checkups and educational programmes.
Several organisations are going the extra mile to help blue-collar workers this summer. They are offering free classes and health campaigns to ensure that these workers have a safe and productive season.
Over 10,000 air-conditioned rest stations will serve delivery service workers across the UAE throughout the peak summer period. Delivery service workers can access the nearest rest stations through interactive maps available on the apps.
Under the blazing sun, hundreds of construction workers pause their daily grind to receive something simple yet deeply appreciated — cold water, juice, and frozen treats.
As part of the Al Freej Fridge humanitarian campaign, now in its second edition, thousands of bottles of water, juice, and ice cream are handed out to workers at the massive construction site, offering not just physical relief from the heat but a moment of care and recognition.