Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) has warned employers that exposing workers to direct sunlight or difficult weather conditions without necessary safety precautions is a violation of labor regulations. The Kingdom’s 2026 midday work ban also prohibits covered outdoor work under direct sunlight from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. between June 15 and September 15.
MHRSD Warns Employers Over Direct Sunlight Exposure
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has emphasized that employers must take appropriate occupational safety and health measures when workers are exposed to direct sunlight, high temperatures or other difficult climatic conditions.
Saudi labor regulations require employers to protect workers from occupational hazards and provide appropriate preventive measures. Employers must also ensure that workers understand workplace risks and have access to suitable personal protective equipment.
This requirement is particularly important for employees performing outdoor or field work, including workers assigned to construction, maintenance and other projects during afternoon hours.
Saudi Arabia’s Midday Work Ban in 2026
The warning comes as Saudi Arabia is implementing its annual midday work ban for private-sector establishments.
For 2026, the ban applies from:
- June 15, 2026
- September 15, 2026
- 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The measure prohibits covered outdoor work under direct sunlight during the specified hours and is designed to reduce the risk of heat stress and other occupational health problems.
Arab Local previously reported on the Saudi Arabia Midday Work Ban 2026, including the applicable dates, working hours and reporting procedures.
Employers Must Take Necessary Safety Precautions
Saudi labor regulations place responsibility on employers to protect workers from risks arising from their jobs.
Employers are expected to:
- Provide a safe and healthy working environment.
- Take necessary precautions against workplace hazards.
- Provide appropriate personal protective equipment.
- Train workers on the proper use of protective equipment.
- Provide drinking water and suitable workplace safety arrangements.
- Monitor workers during periods of extreme heat.
- Provide shaded areas and appropriate rest arrangements where required.
MHRSD’s occupational safety guidance also recommends measures such as adequate hydration, taking breaks in shaded areas and stopping work if symptoms such as fatigue or dizziness occur.
Working in Bad Weather Without Protection Can Be a Violation
The protection requirements are not limited to direct exposure to sunlight.
MHRSD’s violation guidance states that employers should not require workers to work under direct sunlight during summer or in bad climatic conditions without taking the necessary precautions to protect their safety, particularly during periods and circumstances covered by ministerial decisions.
This means employers should assess weather-related risks and implement appropriate controls before assigning workers to outdoor activities.
Afternoon Project Work Must Follow Safety Rules
The ministry’s clarification followed a question from a member of the public regarding workers carrying out project work during the afternoon.
When outdoor project work is scheduled during periods covered by the midday work ban, employers must ensure that working hours are organized in accordance with the applicable requirements.
The ministry has also urged employers to maintain preventive measures at work sites and ensure that workers are protected from heat-related risks.
How to Report Labor Violations in Saudi Arabia
Workers, residents and members of the public can report suspected labor violations through the official channels provided by MHRSD.
The ministry has specifically encouraged the public to report violations related to the midday work ban through:
- MHRSD unified number: 19911
- The official MHRSD mobile application
MHRSD confirmed these reporting channels in its 2026 announcement on the implementation of the midday work ban.
Arab Local has also published a guide on reporting violations of the sun-working ban in Saudi Arabia.
MHRSD Application for Reporting Violations
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development provides a mobile application through which individuals can access ministry services and submit communications and reports.
The official MHRSD application information is available through the ministry website:
Users should rely on the ministry’s official channels when submitting reports concerning workplace safety or suspected labor-law violations.
What Workers Should Do If They Are Asked to Work Under Direct Sunlight
Workers who are asked to perform covered outdoor work under direct sunlight during prohibited hours should prioritize their safety and follow the appropriate workplace safety procedures.
If an employer does not comply with the applicable requirements, workers can report the suspected violation through MHRSD’s official reporting channels.
Workers should provide accurate information about the workplace and the circumstances of the suspected violation so that the relevant authorities can assess the case.
Important Points for Employers and Workers
- Direct sunlight: Employers must take necessary precautions when workers are exposed to direct sunlight.
- Midday work ban: Covered outdoor work under direct sunlight is prohibited from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. during the 2026 ban period.
- Ban period: The 2026 midday work ban runs from June 15 to September 15.
- Worker protection: Employers must provide appropriate occupational safety and health measures.
- Reporting: Suspected violations can be reported through MHRSD’s unified number 19911 or its official mobile application.
- Weather conditions: Employers must also take necessary precautions when workers face difficult climatic conditions.
Saudi Labor Law Requires Employers to Protect Workers
Saudi Arabia’s labor regulations place clear occupational safety responsibilities on employers. Article 122 requires employers to take necessary precautions to protect workers from hazards and diseases arising from work and machinery, while Article 123 requires employers to inform workers about occupational hazards and provide appropriate personal protective equipment and training.
These requirements reinforce the ministry’s position that worker safety is an essential responsibility of employers, particularly when employees are exposed to extreme heat, direct sunlight or other hazardous working conditions.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia is continuing to strengthen workplace safety measures to protect workers from extreme heat and direct sunlight. During the 2026 midday work ban, covered private-sector outdoor work under direct sunlight is prohibited from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. between June 15 and September 15. Employers must also take necessary precautions whenever workers face direct sunlight or difficult climatic conditions. Workers and members of the public can report suspected violations through MHRSD’s unified number 19911 or the ministry’s official mobile application.
