The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has officially declared the implementation of a ‘midday work ban’ starting from June 15 to September 15, 2024.

Along with the midday work ban that restricts working under the sun for all private sector organisations from 12 PM to 3 PM, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development and the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health have also issued health and safety guidelines for private sector workers. The policy aims to protect workers from potential health risks and ensure a healthy and safe work environment in accordance with international occupational safety and health standards.

MHRSD has also mandated private organisations to reschedule working hours accordingly. This is to create a safe work environment, reduce occupational injuries and diseases from sun exposure and heat stress, and protect workers from accidents caused by heat strokes, ultimately improving productivity. In addition to this, the authority implements strict actions and penalties for organisations found violating the midday work ban policy by allowing work under the sun.

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Recently, the Ministry of Labour in Oman and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation also banned outdoor work during midday hours to protect workers from extreme heat and to ensure their safety and well-being during the peak summer months.