Gulf companies adjust work hours as World Cup soccer matches begin
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 18, 2026, 12:23 PM
Last updated Jun 18, 2026
As the World Cup unfolds this summer, companies across the Gulf region are adjusting work schedules to accommodate late-night soccer matches. Flexibility in hours has been implemented after national teams play, in Saudi Arabia, where some organizations have allowed noon starts following the Green Falcons' games. Saudi Arabia's match against Uruguay ended in a draw, while Qatar also held Switzerland to a tie in their opening games. Upcoming matches include Saudi Arabia facing Spain and Qatar taking on Canada. With Saudi Arabia poised to host the World Cup in 2034, the current tournament's impact is significant for the kingdom's sports economy.
- •Saudi Arabia allowed noon starts after World Cup matches.
- •Saudi Arabia drew with Uruguay in their opener.
- •Qatar's opener against Switzerland ended in a draw.
- •Upcoming matches feature Saudi Arabia vs. Spain and Qatar vs. Canada.
- 12:23 PMYahoo Sports — How soccer fans in the Gulf are balancing work and the World Cup
"Companies around the region are giving employees flexible hours after their respective national teams play.
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