What are working hours during Ramadan in Saudi Arabia, and do they apply to everyone?

Under Article 98 of the Saudi Labor Law, actual working hours for Muslim workers during Ramadan can't exceed 6 hours a day or 36 hours a week, and hours worked on Eid holidays count as overtime.

What the law says

• Article 98 sets the normal limit at 8 actual working hours a day (daily standard) or 48 a week (weekly standard).
• In Ramadan, the limit for Muslim workers drops to 6 hours a day or 36 a week.
• The article sets the Ramadan limit for Muslim workers only; it doesn't set a separate Ramadan limit for others, so ask HR how your employer applies it.
• Article 107: all hours worked on holidays and Eid days are overtime, paid at the hourly wage plus 50% of the basic wage, or as paid compensatory days off if you agree.
• Article 104: the weekly rest day stays fully paid and lasts at least 24 consecutive hours.

Practical tips

1. Ask HR for the Ramadan timetable in writing, with start and finish times.
2. If you're asked to work during Eid, confirm how the hours will be compensated before the holiday.
3. Keep your own record of the hours you work.

Official sources

• Saudi Labor Law, Bureau of Experts at the Council of Ministers (Arabic, current text)

On Saudi Expats: our guide to Ramadan and the overtime calculator.

Checked September 2026. Eid holiday dates for the private sector are announced each year, so check your employer's notice for the exact days.

How does your workplace handle Ramadan hours? Share your experience below.