Midday Outdoor Work Ban Ends for 2026 Season

The annual ban on outdoor work under direct sunlight during peak summer hours has reached its implementation end date for the 2026 season in Saudi Arabia. The measure, applied by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development in coordination with the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health, ran from 15 June to 15 September 2026, prohibiting outdoor work daily between 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.

The ban covered all private-sector establishments across the Kingdom and applied to workers exposed to direct sunlight, including those in construction, cleaning, road maintenance, and similar activities. Outside the specified dates and hours, the seasonal prohibition does not apply.

Authorities reported a compliance rate of around 95% for the 2026 implementation period, reflecting broad adherence among employers. During the ban, companies were required to adjust work shifts to avoid midday outdoor tasks, provide shade, hydration, and safety measures, and maintain evidence of compliance and risk controls.

Why it matters

The seasonal ban is designed to protect outdoor workers from heat-related illness during the hottest months of the year. For the large workforce in construction and maintenance across Riyadh, Jeddah, and other cities, the measure helps reduce the risk of heat exhaustion and improves overall workplace safety.

Official announcements and regulatory details are published through the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development's online channels and its media center. Employers can find guidance on shift adjustments, shade and hydration measures, and evidence retention in the season's employment compliance guides. With the 2026 period now concluded, normal outdoor work schedules resume until the ban is reactivated in the next summer season.

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