The Royal Commission for Riyadh City, in partnership with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, has begun implementing a flexible working hours initiative in 6 work zones across Riyadh, starting June 2, 2026. This is part of efforts to enhance mobility efficiency in the capital, support traffic flow, and improve quality of life.
The initiative includes over 50 entities in 6 work locations (KAFD, Digital City, Diplomatic Quarter, Wadi Al-Safa, Granada Business, and Roshan Front) by expanding the flexible hours window to four hours, allowing for a distribution of arrival and departure times across multiple periods and reducing congestion during peak hours.
The initiative is expected to provide greater flexibility for employees in choosing their attendance times, positively impacting the work experience, enhancing mobility efficiency, and supporting ongoing efforts to develop a more efficient and sustainable urban environment.
This initiative is part of an integrated system of solutions and projects implemented by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City to develop mobility in the capital, alongside road projects, public transport, traffic management, and modern regulatory solutions, keeping pace with the city’s rapid growth.
KAFD
KAFD, or the King Abdullah Financial District, is a state-of-the-art business hub located in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Developed as a major component of the country’s economic diversification efforts, it was launched in the early 2010s to serve as a central financial center, housing banks, investment firms, and corporate headquarters. The district features modern architecture and aims to position Riyadh as a leading global financial destination.
Digital City
Digital City is a conceptual or virtual urban environment that exists primarily through digital networks and technology, rather than physical infrastructure. Its history is rooted in the rise of the internet and smart city initiatives, where data, connectivity, and digital platforms enable communication, commerce, and governance. While not a single physical location, it represents the growing integration of digital tools into everyday life, shaping modern urban culture and interaction.
Diplomatic Quarter
The Diplomatic Quarter, also known as the DQ, is a dedicated diplomatic and residential enclave in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, established in the 1980s to house foreign embassies, international organizations, and their staff. Designed with a blend of modern infrastructure and traditional Islamic architecture, it was created to centralize diplomatic missions away from the city center and foster secure, efficient international relations. The area features landscaped parks, cultural centers, and mosques, and has grown into a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s openness and diplomatic engagement.
Wadi Al-Safa
Wadi Al-Safa is a historic valley located in the Al-Baha region of southwestern Saudi Arabia, known for its lush greenery, terraced farms, and traditional stone villages. The area has been inhabited for centuries, serving as an important agricultural and trade route due to its fertile soil and moderate climate. Its cultural significance is reflected in the local architecture and ancient irrigation systems that showcase the ingenuity of earlier civilizations.
Granada Business
Granada Business likely refers to the commercial and economic hub within the historic city of Granada, Spain, known for its vibrant markets and trade networks dating back to the Moorish era. This area has evolved from a medieval center of commerce under the Nasrid dynasty into a modern district featuring shops, banks, and corporate offices, blending its rich Islamic heritage with contemporary business activity. Today, it remains a key economic driver in the region, attracting both locals and tourists to its bustling streets and cultural landmarks.
Roshan Front
Roshan Front was a key defensive position and military stronghold in Afghanistan, particularly associated with the Soviet-Afghan War and later conflicts. Located in the rugged terrain of the country, it served as a strategic outpost for Afghan resistance fighters against foreign forces. Its history reflects the broader struggle for control in the region, symbolizing both resilience and the toll of prolonged warfare.
