Feb 25, 2025
With the approach of the holy month of Ramadan in the year 1446 AH, corresponding to 2025, government and private entities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia begin announcing adjustments to working hours to align with the nature of this blessed month. These adjustments aim to strike a balance between work requirements and employees' needs for worship and rest during the fasting month. In this article, we will review the details of working hours across various sectors, including government, private, banking, and schools, along with tips for a smooth work experience during Ramadan.
Typically, working hours in the government sector are reduced during Ramadan to provide a suitable environment for employees to perform worship and prepare for Iftar with their families. Based on previous decisions, the official working hours are expected to be as follows:
Some government entities may adopt a flexible work system, allowing employees to choose working hours that suit them within the specified timeframe. Additionally, remote work may be implemented for certain roles that allow it, while ensuring at least 50% of employees are present in the workplace.
Working hours in the private sector differ from the government sector, as they depend on the nature of each organization's business. However, regulations require reduced working hours for Muslim employees during Ramadan:
The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) has announced the working hours for banks during Ramadan, which are typically as follows:
With technological advancements, customers can conduct most banking transactions electronically through official apps and websites, reducing the need to visit branches during working hours.
The Ministry of Education has decided to adjust school timings during Ramadan to ease the burden on students and teachers:
This adjustment aims to provide students with sufficient time for worship and rest while maintaining the quality of the educational process.
To ensure a comfortable and efficient work experience during Ramadan, employees are advised to follow these guidelines:
The adjustments to working hours during Ramadan reflect the Saudi government's commitment to providing a suitable work environment for employees, enabling them to balance work and worship. These adjustments help:
As the holy month approaches, employees are advised to start planning in advance to organize their work and worship schedules. This can be achieved by:
Conclusion
The adjustment of working hours during Ramadan reflects the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's dedication to providing a flexible and suitable work environment for all employees during this holy month. Whether you work in the government or private sector, or are a student, these adjustments aim to help you achieve a balance between work and worship, making Ramadan 1446 AH a unique and comfortable experience for everyone.
Working hours in the government sector start at 10:00 AM and end at 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM, with 5 to 6 working hours per day.
Working hours in the private sector are reduced to 6 hours per day or 36 hours per week for Muslim employees.
Banks operate from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, while money transfer centers operate from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Yes, some government and private entities allow flexible or remote work, especially for roles that permit it.
Morning schools operate from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM, while evening schools start at 1:00 PM.
Adjustments are typically applied to Muslim employees, but policies may vary by organization.
Yes, official working hours are announced by relevant authorities such as the Ministry of Human Resources and the Saudi Central Bank.
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March 25, 2025
In a move reflecting Saudi Arabia’s commitment to environmental protection and biodiversity conservation, Saudi officials announced the relocation of a global project in the futuristic city of Neom due to the discovery of a rare plant species found exclusively in that location. This decision came under the direct order of HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, emphasizing the priority of environmental conservation in Saudi Vision 2030.
During the planning of a luxury resort in one of Neom’s valleys, experts discovered a rare plant species that grows only in that mountainous area and had never been documented elsewhere in the world. This placed the team in a difficult position: proceed with the massive investment project or protect this unique plant.
As recounted by Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, Saudi Minister of Sports, on the program "Hikayat Waad" on MBC, the Crown Prince immediately ordered the project to be relocated and the original site to be turned into a natural reserve to protect the plant. The species was officially registered under the name "Neom", honoring the project that sacrificed financial gains for environmental preservation.
Neom adopts a unique environmental philosophy, aiming to dedicate 95% of its land as protected natural reserves, making it a model for sustainable development that balances urbanization and nature conservation. Key initiatives include:
The Neom plant story is not the only example of Saudi leadership’s environmental dedication. Bandar Al-Khorayef, Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, shared another instance where the Crown Prince rejected a mining investment in a protected area, humorously remarking:
"Did you search the entire country and only find this spot?"
This led to a revision of Saudi Arabia’s investment map to exclude protected zones.
The story of the rare Neom plant is not just an isolated event but a powerful statement from Saudi Arabia that true development does not come at nature’s expense. While other nations prioritize short-term economic gains over the environment, the Kingdom sets a global example in combining economic growth with ecological sustainability, reinforcing its role as a pioneer in protecting the planet for future generations.
March 23, 2025
Eid al-Fitr is a joyous religious and social occasion that marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. Families and friends come together to celebrate, and Saudi Arabia stands out as a prime tourist destination during this time. With its diverse attractions ranging from historical sites to natural wonders and entertainment hubs, the Kingdom offers an unforgettable holiday experience. In this article, we’ll explore the best tourist destinations and activities to enjoy during Eid al-Fitr 2025.
As the capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh is a city that blends modernity with tradition. It boasts a variety of tourist attractions, including:
A breathtaking natural wonder offering stunning views from the top of the Tuwaiq Escarpment.
A historic castle dating back to the 19th century, symbolizing the unification of the Kingdom.
A skyscraper featuring a luxury shopping mall, fine dining restaurants, and panoramic city views.
A must-visit for history enthusiasts, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage from ancient times to the modern era.
Known for its stunning beaches and rich culture, Jeddah is a perfect destination for Eid celebrations:
A mosque that appears to float on the Red Sea, offering a serene and picturesque setting.
A family-friendly waterfront with restaurants, cafes, and recreational activities.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring traditional houses adorned with intricate wooden balconies (Mashrabiyas).
AlUla is one of Saudi Arabia’s most iconic destinations, combining ancient history with breathtaking landscapes:
An archaeological site with Nabatean tombs carved into rock formations.
A tranquil retreat surrounded by palm trees and natural springs.
A unique rock formation resembling an elephant, perfect for photography.
Abha’s mild climate and stunning scenery make it a favorite for nature lovers:
The highest peak in Saudi Arabia, offering mesmerizing views of mist-covered mountains.
A heritage village showcasing traditional architecture and local crafts.
A family-friendly park with recreational activities and scenic walking trails.
Located off the coast of Jazan, the Farasan Islands are a haven for beach and marine enthusiasts:
Al-Ahsa is renowned for its lush palm groves and rich history, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site:
The largest palm oasis in the world, home to over 2.5 million palm trees.
Natural caves formed by erosion, perfect for exploration.
A traditional market offering local products and handicrafts.
Tabuk, in the north of Saudi Arabia, is known for its historical and natural attractions:
Dammam is famous for its beaches and modern shopping centers:
An artificial island with a zoo, amusement park, and family-friendly activities.
A waterfront area ideal for walking, cycling, and picnics.
One of the largest shopping centers in the region, featuring a variety of stores and restaurants.
Taif’s moderate climate and natural beauty make it a popular destination for families:
Umluj is known for its golden beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a paradise for beach lovers:
In conclusion, Saudi Arabia is a comprehensive tourist destination offering diverse experiences for all tastes. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on pristine beaches, exploring ancient history, or embarking on natural adventures, Eid al-Fitr 2025 is the perfect opportunity to discover the treasures of the Kingdom. Plan your trip now and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones!
March 20, 2025
In a new step reflecting Saudi Arabia's commitment to achieving the goals of Vision 2030, the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture announced the launch of five major investment opportunities in the agricultural sector in the Al-Baha region. These opportunities, announced through the "Furas" platform, aim to enhance self-sufficiency in agricultural products, increase local production, support food security, and attract both local and international investments.
The opportunities include the establishment of an integrated agricultural city dedicated to cultivating prickly pear (cactus fruit), as well as four agricultural cities specialized in growing coffee (Arabica) trees. According to the ministry's statement, over 2.2 million square meters will be allocated for the prickly pear agricultural city, while the coffee cultivation cities will span more than 2.3 million square meters in the Baljurashi governorate of the Al-Baha region, which boasts an ideal climate and environment for these high-quality crops.
Through these projects, the Kingdom aims to achieve several strategic goals, including:
This initiative aligns with the Kingdom's efforts to diversify income sources and reduce dependence on oil, with the agricultural sector being one of the key pillars for achieving this goal. These projects also reflect Saudi Arabia's commitment to sustainable economic development and strengthening its position as a regional hub for agricultural investment.
These investment opportunities represent a significant step towards enhancing the agricultural sector in Saudi Arabia, contributing to food security and supporting the national economy. Through these projects, Saudi Arabia demonstrates its commitment to achieving Vision 2030 by diversifying the economy and creating promising investment opportunities. This move not only supports the agricultural sector but also reinforces the Kingdom's position as a leading investment destination in the region.