Shopping malls and retail outlets can remain open 24 hours a day until the end of the holy month of Ramadan, without obtaining prior approval, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has announced.
“From the beginning of Ramadan 1440 AH until the end of the holy month, all shopping mall and retail outlets (supermarkets, hypermarkets and others) could extend working hours to 24 hours per day,” according to a statement.
The Ministry urged all malls and retail outlets to clearly inform consumers of working hours and schedule. The initiative comes within the framework of the Ministry’s efforts to stimulate trade sectors.
“Throughout the holy month, shopping malls, retail outlets and restaurants attract a large number of people,” it was explained.
Given the unique nature of Ramadan when time is divided between praying, working, commuting, and shopping among other preoccupations, the Ministry urged shopping malls and retail outlets to extend working hours and inform consumers of the new hours so they can better plan their schedule and choose a convenient time for shopping.
