Working hours in Makkah follow the national Labour Law, with shorter hours for Muslim workers in Ramadan and set holidays for the two Eids and national days. This guide summarises what the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) publishes for the private sector.
It is not legal advice. Government, school and some sector rules differ. Check your contract and ask your employer, and see HRSD for the full rules.
Quick answer
Short answer: HRSD’s guide says private-sector working hours are 8 a day or 48 a week, with Friday as the usual weekly rest day. In Ramadan, Muslim workers’ hours are reduced to 6 a day or 36 a week. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are 4 days each, and Founding Day and National Day are one day each.
Working hours
HRSD rules (as published)
- Normal hours: up to 8 a day or 48 a week (HRSD).
- Ramadan: reduced for Muslims to no more than 6 a day or 36 a week.
- Weekly rest: Friday, unless another day is agreed and the labour office is notified (HRSD guide).
- Holidays: all hours worked on public holidays count as overtime (HRSD).
HRSD notes that some categories of workers and industries can have different hours by ministerial decision.
Official holidays
| Holiday | Length | When |
|---|---|---|
| Eid al-Fitr | 4 days | From the day after 29 Ramadan (Umm Al-Qura calendar) |
| Eid al-Adha | 4 days | From the Day of Arafah |
| Founding Day | 1 day | 22 February |
| Saudi National Day | 1 day | 23 September |
Sources: HRSD’s holidays page and its awareness guide. Exact Eid dates depend on the official calendar; follow official announcements each year.
When holidays overlap
According to HRSD:
If a holiday overlaps with
- Weekly rest: compensated by days before or after the holiday
- Annual leave: the leave is extended by the holiday days
- Sick leave: full pay for the overlapping days
- National or Founding Day with Eid: no compensation
Planning around Ramadan
Shorter working hours change the rhythm of the day, and many families shift routines. Traffic and shopping patterns also change. Plan school runs and errands for the new timings in the first few days.
Planning around Eid and Hajj
Eid holidays are a popular time to travel or receive family. Book travel early. If relatives want to perform Umrah while visiting, our Nusuk guide explains permits.
Fridays
Friday is the usual weekly rest day. Our Friday guide covers planning the day.
Questions to ask your employer
Before each season
1
Ask for Ramadan hours in writing.
2
Confirm Eid holiday dates once announced.
3
Check any rota if your workplace runs in shifts.
4
Ask how overtime is recorded if you work on a holiday.
Annual leave
The HRSD guide lists annual leave of not less than 21 days. Check your contract for your own entitlement, and plan leave around the holidays.
Leave after five years
According to HRSD’s guide, annual leave increases to 30 days once a worker completes 5 consecutive years with the same employer. The guide also says leave must be taken in the entitlement year and may not be exchanged for cash. Check your contract and ask your employer how this applies to you.
Schools and government offices
School calendars and government working hours are set separately. Check your children’s school calendar and official announcements for each holiday period.
FAQ
How many hours can I work in Ramadan?
HRSD says Muslim workers’ hours are reduced to no more than 6 a day or 36 a week.
How long is the Eid holiday?
HRSD lists 4 days each for Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
Is work on a holiday paid extra?
HRSD says hours worked on public holidays count as overtime.
Last checked: 21 October 2026.
Sources
- https://www.hrsd.gov.sa/en/knowledge-centre/articles/312
- https://www.hrsd.gov.sa/en/knowledge-centre/articles/322
- https://www.hrsd.gov.sa/sites/default/files/2025-12/awareness-guide-on-the-rights-and-duties-of-employers-and-workers.pdf
- https://livinginmakkah.com/friday-in-makkah-practical-guide/
- https://livinginmakkah.com/umrah-permit-nusuk-makkah-residents/
