Saudi Arabia launches flexible working hours in Riyadh

Saudi Arabia has introduced flexible working hours across six major business districts in Riyadh as part of efforts to reduce traffic congestion, improve commuting and enhance quality of life in the capital city.

The initiative was launched by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC) in cooperation with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. It allows employees at more than 50 government entities located within designated business zones to choose their arrival times within a four-hour attendance window.

According to a report by Gulf News, the programme applies to administrative positions with fixed working hours and excludes sectors that require continuous staffing, including healthcare and public education.

The six business districts covered under the initiative are King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), Digital City, the Diplomatic Quarter, Laysen Valley, Granada Business and Roshn Front.

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Under the new system, government entities operating under the Civil Service Law will allow employees to start work at any time between 5:30 am and 9:30 am. Government bodies governed by the Labour Law will adopt attendance windows between 7 am and 11 am.

Authorities said the initiative aims to spread travel demand across a longer period during the morning, helping reduce pressure on roads during peak hours and improving traffic flow across Riyadh.

Part of wider urban development strategy

The Royal Commission for Riyadh City said the measure is designed to provide greater flexibility for employees while supporting broader efforts to improve residents' daily lives.

Government organisations located within the six designated districts have been instructed to comply with the initiative while ensuring continuity of services and maintaining operational standards.

The commission said healthcare and public education institutions are exempt because their operations require fixed schedules and uninterrupted services, Gulf News reported.

Linked to Vision 2030 goals

The flexible working hours programme forms part of Riyadh's wider urban development and transport strategy as the Saudi capital continues to expand under Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 transformation plan.

Riyadh has experienced rapid population growth and rising commuting demand in recent years, prompting authorities to introduce measures aimed at improving mobility and managing traffic more efficiently.

The latest initiative adds to a series of labour and workplace reforms introduced by Saudi Arabia, including measures to support working parents, increase employment opportunities for Saudi nationals and update labour regulations across various sectors.