Midday work ban takes effect across Saudi private sector until September 15

RIYADH — The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) announced that the midday work ban under direct sunlight for all private-sector establishments will be in effect from June 15 to September 15. Implemented in cooperation with the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health, the ban prohibits outdoor work under direct sunlight from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. as part of efforts to protect workers’ health and safety and reduce the occupational risks associated with exposure to extreme heat. By raising awareness and improving compliance among private-sector establishments, the ministry stated that the ban achieved positive results in previous years. The compliance rate reached 94 percent in 2025. MHRSD urged employers to organize working hours in accordance with the regulation and implement the necessary preventive measures at worksites. These measures include providing drinking water, suitable rest areas, shaded spaces, and personal protective equipment, as well as educating workers about the risks of heat stress and ways to prevent it. Employers werealsoencouraged to monitor workers’ physical condition during periods of high temperatures. The ministry has published guidance and instructions on its website to help employers and occupational safety specialists understand preventive requirements, address the risks associated with working in hot environments, and implement best practices to reduce occupational injuries and illnesses caused by direct exposure to sunlight. The ministry called on the public to report any violations of the midday work ban through its unified call center at 19911 or via its smartphone application.