Summer Midday Work Ban Ends With 95% Compliance

The 2026 summer ban on outdoor work during midday hours for the private sector in Saudi Arabia officially ended on 15 September 2026, closing a three-month seasonal enforcement period that ran from 15 June. The measure recorded an overall compliance rate of around 95% across establishments nationwide.

Under the rule, all private-sector establishments were required to halt outdoor work under direct sunlight between 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. throughout the summer window, a step aimed at protecting workers from heat stress during the hottest part of the day.

During the enforcement period, roughly 29,945 inspection visits were carried out at worksites. Inspectors recorded 1,771 violations, while 41 reports related to implementation of the ban were reviewed and addressed.

Why it matters to the community

The seasonal ban is one of the Kingdom's key workplace safety measures during the summer, directly benefiting the large number of expatriate and local workers employed in construction, maintenance, and other outdoor sectors. The high compliance rate signals growing awareness among employers of their responsibilities toward worker health.

The rule is seasonal and does not require any separate application or renewal by workers or companies. It automatically returns during the next summer period, with the same midday hours expected to apply. Employers and workers are encouraged to stay informed ahead of each summer season to ensure smooth compliance.

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