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What are the typical working hours and conditions for civil engineers in GCC countries?

Writer's picture: Global Construction Management BlogGlobal Construction Management Blog

Working as a civil engineer in the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries—such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, and Kuwait—comes with specific working hours and conditions that are influenced by the region's climate, culture, and labor laws. Here’s what you can generally expect:


1. Working Hours


  • Standard Workweek:

    • The typical workweek in GCC countries is Sunday to Thursday, with Friday and Saturday being the weekend. This is different from the Monday-to-Friday workweek common in many other parts of the world.

    • Office-Based Roles: For civil engineers in office-based roles, the working hours are usually from 8:00 AM to 5:00 or 6:00 PM, with a break for lunch. This totals around 40 to 48 hours per week.

    • Site-Based Roles: For those working on construction sites, the hours can be longer and often start earlier in the day to avoid the midday heat, especially during the summer months. It's common for site engineers to begin work as early as 6:00 or 7:00 AM.

  • Overtime:

    • Overtime is common in the construction industry, particularly when project deadlines are approaching. While GCC labor laws generally mandate that overtime should be compensated, the enforcement of this can vary depending on the employer and the country.

    • During peak construction phases, especially on large projects, civil engineers might work 10-12 hour days, and sometimes even on weekends, to meet project timelines.


2. Work Conditions

  • Climate Considerations:

    • The GCC region is known for its extreme heat, particularly during the summer months (June to September). Temperatures can soar above 45°C (113°F), which significantly impacts working conditions.

    • Heat Regulations: Due to the extreme heat, there are specific labor laws in place in many GCC countries to protect workers. For example, in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, there are midday work bans during the summer, prohibiting outdoor work from around 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM to prevent heat-related illnesses.

  • Safety Standards:

    • Safety is a top priority in the GCC construction industry, with stringent regulations in place. Workers are required to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and regular safety training is mandatory.

    • Construction sites are regularly inspected by government authorities to ensure compliance with safety regulations, including the provision of adequate drinking water, shaded rest areas, and proper signage.

  • Work Environment:

    • Site Conditions: Working on construction sites in the GCC can be physically demanding due to the heat, dust, and long hours. However, sites are generally well-organized, with clear protocols for safety and efficiency.

    • Office Environment: For civil engineers working in offices, the work environment is typically modern, with air-conditioned spaces and access to the latest technology and software. The work culture tends to be professional and formal, with a focus on productivity and meeting deadlines.


3. Holidays and Leave

  • Public Holidays:

    • GCC countries observe Islamic holidays, such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, which are significant holidays when most businesses close. The exact number of public holidays can vary depending on the country.

    • Additionally, there are national holidays, such as National Day in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, which are also observed.

  • Annual Leave:

    • Annual leave entitlements typically range from 21 to 30 days per year, depending on the employer and the employee's length of service. The labor laws in most GCC countries mandate a minimum number of leave days that employers must provide.

    • Some employers may also offer additional leave benefits, such as airfare allowances for expatriates to visit their home country.


4. Cultural Considerations

  • Prayer Times:

    • In the GCC, Islamic prayer times are observed throughout the day, and work may be paused briefly for these prayers. Employers usually accommodate prayer times, particularly during the workday.

    • While not mandatory for non-Muslims, being aware of prayer times and respecting the practices of Muslim colleagues is important in maintaining good workplace relationships.

  • Language and Communication:

    • English is widely used in the professional environment, particularly in multinational companies and on construction sites where workers come from diverse backgrounds. However, knowledge of basic Arabic can be beneficial, especially when interacting with local authorities or workers.


5. Compensation and Benefits

  • Salaries:

    • Salaries for civil engineers in the GCC are generally competitive, with the added benefit of being tax-free in most countries. Compensation packages often include additional benefits such as housing allowances, transportation, and healthcare.

    • Salaries can vary significantly depending on the country, the company, the engineer's level of experience, and the specific project.

  • Housing and Transportation:

    • Many employers provide housing allowances or company-provided accommodation, particularly for expatriates. Transportation to and from the worksite may also be provided, especially for those working in remote or difficult-to-reach locations.

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