Saudi Arabia has officially ended its three-month midday work ban for private sector companies, effective September 15, following improvements in weather conditions.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development announced this decision, which aimed to protect workers’ health and safety by prohibiting outdoor work from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, a measure that started on June 15, 2024.

During the ban, compliance among private sector employers was notably high, reaching 94.6%.

This initiative was part of a broader effort to address the hazardous working conditions exacerbated by climate change, with the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health also launching awareness campaigns to promote the importance of worker safety.

Read more

Saudi Arabia FM confident Pakistan visit will deliver ‘significant benefits’

US delegation leaves Saudi Arabia early over Jewish kippah row

Pakistan, Saudi Arabia vow to enhanced bilateral strategic, economic partnership

As the ban comes to an end, the ministry continues to stress the need for adherence to occupational safety guidelines to safeguard workers against the risks associated with extreme heat and sun exposure.