The Ministry of Social Affairs issued a circular directing employees to strictly observe official working hours and administrative rules under instructions from Minister Dr. Amthal Al-Huwaila. Staff must record both arrival and departure exclusively via the approved fingerprint system, which the circular designated as the only valid tracking method. Department heads received orders to supervise implementation in their respective sectors.
Specialized inspection teams will perform visits to departments and units across the ministry to verify adherence to schedules and procedures. These teams will prepare reports detailing any violations or relevant observations for further review. The ministry stated that the inspection findings will determine appropriate follow-up actions.
Employees who disregard the circular or regulations on working hours face legal accountability along with administrative and disciplinary penalties. The directive explicitly prohibits neglecting duties under any conditions. Officials emphasized uniform application to support consistent ministry operations.
Department heads and supervisors must maintain close oversight of the policy within their areas to promote discipline and efficiency. The circular called for full cooperation from all staff in meeting these requirements without exception. This step follows the ministry’s earlier adjustments to workforce presence.
In April 2026 the Ministry of Social Affairs set physical attendance at 50 percent of employees in line with Civil Service Commission guidance on regional circumstances, according to administrative circulars issued by Undersecretary Dr. Khaled Al-Ajmi. The Civil Service Commission has required biometric fingerprint tracking across government bodies since Circular No. 9 of 2024 to improve transparency and efficiency. Recent commission announcements have reaffirmed the use of fingerprint systems alongside flexible hours and adjusted staffing levels.
