The UAE experiences extreme heat, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 45°C and high humidity. Heat-related illnesses range from mild heat cramps to life-threatening heatstroke. Outdoor workers, children, the elderly, and anyone exercising or working in the heat are at greatest risk.
Types of Heat-Related Illness
Heat Cramps
- Painful muscle cramps, usually in the legs or abdomen
- Caused by heavy sweating and loss of salt and electrolytes
- Occur during or after intense physical activity in heat
- Action: Rest in a cool place, drink water or an electrolyte drink, gently stretch and massage the affected muscles
Heat Exhaustion
A more serious condition that occurs when the body cannot cool itself adequately.
Symptoms:
- Heavy sweating
- Weakness and fatigue
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Muscle cramps
- Cool, pale, and clammy skin
- Fast, weak pulse
- Core body temperature may be elevated (up to 40°C)
Action:
- 1Move the person to a cool, shaded area or air-conditioned space
- 2Lie them down and raise their legs
- 3Remove excess clothing
- 4Cool them with water (spray, sponge, or wet towels on skin)
- 5Give small sips of cool water if they are conscious and alert
- 6If symptoms do not improve within 30 minutes, call emergency services
Heatstroke - A MEDICAL EMERGENCY
Heatstroke occurs when the body's temperature regulation fails and core temperature rises above 40°C. It is life-threatening if not treated immediately.
Symptoms:
- High body temperature (above 40°C)
- Hot, red, dry skin (sweating may be absent)
- Rapid, strong pulse
- Throbbing headache
- Confusion, agitation, or altered mental state
- Slurred speech
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
Action - Call 998 IMMEDIATELY:
- 1Call emergency services
- 2Move the person to a cool area
- 3Begin rapid cooling: apply cold water or ice packs to the neck, armpits, and groin
- 4Fan the person while wetting their skin
- 5Do NOT give fluids if the person is unconscious or confused
- 6Do NOT delay seeking emergency help
Who Is at Higher Risk?
- Outdoor workers (construction, delivery, landscaping)
- Athletes and those exercising outdoors
- Children (less efficient at regulating body temperature)
- Elderly (reduced ability to sense and respond to temperature changes)
- People with chronic conditions (heart disease, diabetes, obesity, kidney disease)
- People taking certain medications (diuretics, beta-blockers, antihistamines, psychiatric medications)
- Visitors and tourists not acclimatised to the heat
Prevention
Stay Hydrated
- Drink water regularly throughout the day, even if not thirsty
- In the UAE summer, aim for 3-4 litres per day (more if physically active outdoors)
- Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine (they promote dehydration)
- Carry water at all times
- Include electrolyte drinks if sweating heavily for prolonged periods
Limit Heat Exposure
- Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat (10am-4pm) in summer
- The UAE government enforces a midday work ban for outdoor workers (12:30pm-3:00pm) from 15 June to 15 September
- Take regular breaks in air-conditioned or shaded areas
Dress Appropriately
- Light-coloured, loose-fitting, breathable clothing
- Wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses
- Apply sunscreen (sunburn reduces the body's ability to cool itself)
Acclimatisation
- New arrivals to the UAE should gradually increase heat exposure over 1-2 weeks
- Increase activity levels in heat slowly
Monitor Vulnerable People
- Check on elderly relatives and neighbours regularly during extreme heat
- Never leave children or pets in a parked car (interior temperatures can reach 60°C within minutes)
- Ensure children are drinking enough water
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional first aid training or medical advice. In a heat emergency, call 998 immediately.