ISLAMABAD – The Bureau of Emirgration and Overseas Employment has shared details about Saudi Arabia’s standard working hours, rest schedule and overtime salary in order to educate Pakistani workers residing in the kingdom.
According to the guidelines, the normal working hours in Saudi Arabia are limited to a maximum of eight hours per day or 48 hours per week.
Employees are entitled to a mandatory rest period during the working day, ensuring regulated work routines.
The policy also guarantees a continuous weekly rest period of at least one full day. This weekly holiday must be provided after six consecutive working days. Employers are required to ensure that workers receive this rest without interruption.
Additionally, the rules state that the weekly rest day should normally fall on Friday. However, if work requirements make this impractical, an alternative day may be assigned, provided the employee is given proper compensation or adjustment in accordance with regulations.
The bureau clarified that any work performed beyond the standard eight-hour workday will be treated as overtime, for which employees must be paid at a rate 50 percent higher than their regular wages.
The announcement aims to safeguard workers’ rights, promote work-life balance, and standardize labor practices across the Kingdom.
