Saudi Arabia’s rapid economic transformation and ambitious development projects have brought workplace safety into sharp focus.
While the country has made significant strides in improving worker protections, especially under its Vision 2030 initiative, concerns remain—particularly for migrant workers in high-risk sectors.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of workplace safety in Saudi Arabia, including statistics, legal frameworks, risks, and practical considerations for those planning to work there.
Key workplace safety statistics
- Workforce Composition: Expatriates make up 66% of Saudi Arabia’s workforce.
- Work Hours: 45.8% of employees work more than 40 hours per week; 39.6% work exactly 40 hours.
- Health and Safety Training: 46.6% of employees have received workplace health and safety training.
- Dedicated Health & Safety Departments: 48.7% of workplaces have a dedicated health and safety department.
- Healthcare Coverage: 89.7% of employees have basic healthcare coverage.
- Work-Related Health Issues: 83.5% report no work-related health issues; the most common issue is stress (3.2%).
- Common Risks: Prolonged standing (28.21%), prolonged sitting (28.15%), repetitive upper limb movement (17.1%), chemical/electrical/machinery risks (7.8%/6.3%).
Legal Framework and Safety Initiatives
Saudi Labor Law mandates employers to ensure workplace safety, provide necessary protective equipment, and conduct regular safety training. Recent reforms have strengthened anti-discrimination provisions and require employers with 50+ workers to implement comprehensive health and safety policies.
Vision 2030 and mega-projects (e.g., NEOM, Red Sea Project) have driven significant investment in workplace safety technologies, such as IoT sensors and AI-powered risk analytics, especially in high-risk sectors like construction and aviation.
Compliance and Enforcement
- Compliance Rates: Private sector compliance with safety standards has reached 90%.
- Occupational Safety Professionals: Over 29,000 Saudis now work in occupational safety and health, a 130% increase in recent years.
- Inspection and Penalties: The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development conducts regular inspections, with violations subject to legal penalties.
Risks and Challenges
Despite improvements, serious challenges persist:
- Migrant worker vulnerability: Migrant workers, who form the majority of the workforce, are disproportionately affected by workplace accidents, especially in construction. Common causes include falls, machinery accidents, and electrocution.
- Kafala System: The sponsorship system ties migrant workers’ legal status to their employer, limiting their ability to change jobs and seek redress for abuses.
- Accident Reporting and Compensation: Many workplace deaths (especially among migrants) are misclassified as “natural,” with families often facing difficulties obtaining compensation.
- Heat-Related Risks: Protections against extreme heat are inadequate, despite high temperatures and the inclusion of heat-related diseases in the list of occupational illnesses.
Comparison Table: Worker Safety in Saudi Arabia vs. Other GCC Countries
| Feature | Saudi Arabia | UAE | Qatar |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expatriate Workforce (%) | 66% | ~89% | ~95% |
| Labor Law Reforms (recent) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Kafala System (restrictions) | Partially reformed | Partially reformed | Partially reformed |
| Trade Unions Allowed | No (for migrants) | No | No |
| Work Hours (per week) | 48 (standard) | 48 | 48 |
| Health & Safety Training (%) | 46.6% | N/A | N/A |
| Private Sector Safety Compliance | 90% | N/A | N/A |
| Common Risks | Construction, heat, falls | Construction, heat | Construction, heat |
| Healthcare Coverage (%) | 89.7% | High (mandatory) | High (mandatory) |
Rights and Benefits for Workers
- Annual Leave: 21 days (increases to 30 after 5 years).
- Public Holidays: 10-12 days per year.
- Social Security: Mandatory for Saudi employees; foreign workers are exempt from some contributions.
- Health Insurance: Mandatory for all employees.
- Income Tax: No personal income tax in Saudi Arabia.
Practical Advice for Prospective Workers
- Understand your rights: Familiarize yourself with Saudi labor law, especially regarding safety, leave, and compensation.
- Check employer compliance: Ensure your employer provides safety training, protective equipment, and health insurance.
- Be aware of risks: High-risk sectors (construction, oil & gas) have higher accident rates. Migrant workers should be especially vigilant.
- Document everything: Keep records of employment contracts, safety training, and incident reports.
- Seek support: If you face abuse or unsafe conditions, contact your embassy or relevant international organizations.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia has made notable progress in workplace safety, driven by regulatory reforms, technological investment, and increased employer awareness. However, significant risks remain, particularly for migrant workers in hazardous sectors.
Prospective workers should carefully assess their employment conditions, understand their rights, and take proactive steps to ensure their safety.
While Saudi Arabia is increasingly safe for many workers, those in high-risk occupations—especially migrants—should remain cautious and well-informed.