Regional Coverage
Regional Coverage
- Details
- Louise Waters
- Middle East
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 5th June 2026
- Year: 2026
ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo and the Minister of Human Resources and Social Development of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Eng. Ahmed bin Sulaiman Al-Rajhi, discussed the ongoing ILO-Saudi Arabia Programme of Cooperation at a meeting in Geneva on 4 June
Now in its third phase, the programme is aimed at supporting labour market development, strengthening institutions and enhancing worker protection. The third phase, launched last year, builds on progress achieved since 2018 during the first two phases of the programme, which laid the foundations for labour reform in Saudi Arabia, supporting the development of national employment policies, advancing occupational safety and health standards, strengthening social dialogue institutions and promoting fundamental principles and rights at work. The collaboration has contributed to improvements in female labour force participation, social dialogue mechanisms, skills governance and labour inspection systems.
Recent successes have included a comprehensive situational analysis of forced labour in the Kingdom, the adoption by the Ministry of the ILO’s Skills for Trade and Economic Diversification (STED) methodology to strengthen skills anticipation systems, and capacity-building initiatives for sector skills councils and the Occupational Safety and Health Council. The programme has also supported training activities for cooperative owners and Ministry staff.
The current phase of cooperation will focus on strengthening social dialogue, labour mobility and recruitment systems, protections for domestic workers, access to justice and social protection, labour inspection and occupational safety and health systems, and stronger skills governance. It will also contribute to the effective implementation of the international labour standards ratified by the Kingdom.
Minister of Human Resources and Social Development of Saudi Arabia, Eng. Ahmed bin Sulaiman Al-Rajhi, said, “Saudi Arabia’s labour market transformation is guided by a clear commitment to economic competitiveness while ensuring social progress. Our continued cooperation with the ILO reflects our shared ambition to build a more inclusive, resilient and future-ready labour market. One that expands opportunities, enhances protections for all workers, and supports the Kingdom’s national priorities and ambitions.”
ILO director-general Gilbert F. Houngbo added, “This ongoing phase of cooperation reflects the value of continued collaboration between Saudi Arabia and the ILO to support progress towards a more inclusive and resilient labour market, with greater opportunities and rights for all workers, and to advance decent work for all in the Kingdom.”
- Details
- Middle East
- Topic: ESG
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 4th June 2026
- Year: 2026
The travel and hospitality industry is undergoing a profound transformation, and at the forefront of this shift is Red Sea Global (RSG). As the pioneering developer behind the regenerative tourism destinations of The Red Sea and AMAALA, RSG has recently reached a monumental milestone in its environmental commitments.
In a significant announcement made in Riyadh on the 3rd of June 2026, the organisation revealed that it had successfully avoided an impressive 117,879 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO₂e) throughout 2024. Crucially, this achievement has been independently verified by the third-party organisation DNV, confirming the substantial impact of RSG's renewable energy and low-carbon operations. These figures represent the volume of emissions that would have otherwise been released into the atmosphere had the developer relied upon conventional energy and transport systems.
To truly grasp the magnitude of this achievement, one must put these figures into perspective. Avoiding nearly 118,000 tonnes of emissions is the environmental equivalent of taking almost 27,500 cars off the road for an entire year. Alternatively, it matches the total elimination of electricity usage for 24,500 households. Raed Albasseet, the Group Chief Environment and Sustainability Officer at Red Sea Global, highlighted the significance of these numbers, stating, “Avoiding nearly 118,000 tonnes of emissions at this stage of development shows what is possible when sustainability is built in from the outset. As our destinations scale, so too will this impact”.
The lion's share of these avoided emissions can be attributed directly to RSG’s unwavering commitment to renewable energy solutions. Rather than relying on traditional fossil fuels, The Red Sea destination is powered entirely by 100% renewable electricity. This colossal operational shift is supported by an infrastructure that includes more than 760,000 solar panels. Furthermore, to ensure that this clean energy is not merely a daytime luxury, RSG has implemented a large-scale battery storage facility. This infrastructure guarantees a round-the-clock supply of clean power, redefining the energy standards for large-scale luxury tourism.
Beyond stationary energy consumption, Red Sea Global has also heavily invested in decarbonising its transport networks. Across its operations, the company runs a steadily growing fleet of electric vehicles and buses. This modern transport ecosystem is supported by an extensive network of 150 charging stations, all of which are directly powered by the destination's own renewable grid. In the aviation sector, the Red Sea International Airport has taken proactive steps by introducing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and Lower-Carbon Aviation Fuel (LCAF) for its seaplane operations. Furthermore, the airport is actively collaborating with airline partners to expand the availability of SAF for incoming passenger flights.
Together, these multifaceted measures represent significant progress towards RSG’s overarching ambition: to achieve net-zero emissions across Scope 1 and 2 by the year 2030. Moreover, these independently verified results play a crucial role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s broader national objectives, particularly Vision 2030 and the Circular Carbon Economy Framework. By contributing to the Kingdom’s ambition to reach net-zero emissions by 2060, RSG is setting a global benchmark. By seamlessly pairing technological innovation with strict scientific accountability, Red Sea Global continues to demonstrably prove that regenerative tourism is a practical reality capable of delivering measurable, large-scale climate impact.
- Details
- Europe
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Europe
- Date: 3rd June 2026
- Year: 2026
The modern workplace is no longer merely threatened by heavy machinery or precarious scaffolding. Today, the most formidable hazards facing our workforce are invisible illnesses, algorithmic bosses, and record-breaking heatwaves
While traditional hazards once dominated safety concerns, the International Labour Organization (ILO) warns that the next decade will be defined by these 'invisible killers'. During a pivotal public hearing before the European Parliament's Committee on Employment and Social Affairs, the ILO emphasised the urgent need for a robust, modernised EU strategic framework on health and safety at work for the post-2027 period.
The silent crisis
Although Europe has achieved remarkable success in driving down fatal workplace accidents, a quieter, deadlier crisis is taking a severe toll. Currently, occupational diseases are responsible for more than 98 per cent of all work-related deaths across the European Union. Nearly half of these fatalities are linked to occupational cancers, with circulatory and respiratory illnesses remaining major causes of mortality.
Priorities for the future
Addressing this defining challenge of the coming decade, Joaquim Pintado Nunes, Chief of the ILO Occupational Safety and Health and Working Environment Branch, highlighted future prevention priorities to the European Parliament. He stated: “The prevention of occupational diseases should remain a central priority of the post-2027 framework, including continued action on carcinogens, hazardous substances and disease recognition.” He further noted: “Strong national OSH systems, effective labour inspection and reliable data remain essential to realizing the fundamental right to a safe and healthy working environment.”
Emerging global threats
The ILO also cautions that digitalisation and climate change are fundamentally reshaping global occupational safety:
Digitalisation and psychosocial risks: Psychosocial risks contribute to over 840,000 deaths annually worldwide. Furthermore, artificial intelligence introduces complex challenges regarding algorithmic management, intense surveillance, and work intensification.
Climate change: Shifting weather patterns increasingly endanger staff. Europe has endured the fastest global rise in occupational heat exposure over the last two decades, leading to a spike in workplace injuries and chronic illnesses.
Consequently, the ILO strongly advocates for climate adaptation, extreme weather preparedness, and AI oversight to feature prominently in the forthcoming EU Strategic Framework. Following the 2022 recognition of a safe and healthy working environment as a Fundamental Principle and Right at Work, the ILO believes Europe holds the potential to shape the global safety agenda for years to come.
- Details
- Middle East
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 3rd June 2026
- Year: 2026
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has announced plans to increase the rate of local employment to 70% across a dozen procurement professions.
The move, part of efforts to expand Saudisation rates across the country, was effective from 31 May, The Saudi Gazette reported.
It noted that the rules apply to private sector firms employing three or more workers in the targeted professions, which include warehouse manager, procurement manager and logistics manager.
Other professions named include contracts manager, tender specialist, market research specialist and e-commerce specialist, among others.
“The Ministry’s inspection teams have commenced monitoring the implementation of the decision across targeted establishments to ensure compliance with the prescribed Saudisation rates and the localisation of the designated professions,” The Saudi Gazette reported on 1 June.
Legal penalties will be imposed on companies that fail to comply after a specified deadline, it added.
“This decision forms part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to increase Saudisation rates across a range of professions, in alignment with the objectives of the labour market strategy aimed at supporting Saudi talent and expanding employment opportunities across various sectors,” The Saudi Gazette report stated.
It also reflects the growing number of specialist job seekers and seeks to carve out opportunities for Saudi nationals and foster more sustainable employment across the professions.
- Details
- Louise Waters
- Middle East
- Topic: Security
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 1st June 2026
- Year: 2026
Saudi Arabia is deploying AI and advanced technologies to enhance safety and security during the Hajj and Umrah seasons
The King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), in partnership with the General Directorate of Public Security at the Ministry of Interior, has developed the smart “Roya” platform, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency. It leverages artificial intelligence, remote sensing technologies, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to support security and operational activities in the holy sites, facilitating fast and accurate decision-making.
The platform includes the analysis of satellite imagery and geospatial data to study traffic movement and monitor crowd density, while also delivering field indicators that support security authorities in managing critical locations, helping to improve pilgrims’ experience and enhance safety and operational efficieincy across the holy sites.
The platform also offers advanced analyses of thermal zones and land surface temperature variations in Makkah and the holy sites, in addition to detecting irregular patterns and transforming data into spatial reports.
KACST explained that the Roya platform currently displays nearly 2,000 satellite images from the current and previous seasons, in addition to 126 aerial imaging operations covering Makkah, Madinah, the holy sites, and the roads leading to them. The platform also provides urban heat island monitoring services, offering a more comprehensive environmental and climate assessment to support monitoring and field analysis activities.
Operated by KACST, the Roya platform is connected to the General Directorate of Public Security’s network through the Command and Control Center. It features an interactive interface that enables real-time data visualisation, contributing to improved services for pilgrims and enhanced operational readiness in high-density locations.
The platform is part of the National Laboratory’s efforts at KACST to develop technological solutions and build smart platforms, supporting the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 in strengthening a knowledge-based and innovation-driven digital economy.
During this year’s Hajj season, the Sawaher platform was deployed to enhance crowd management and bolster security at the holy sites and their access points. Spearheaded by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority in partnership with the Ministry of Interior, it utilises over 5,000 cameras across 80 locations, supported by 31 data dashboards, 16 artificial intelligence algorithms, and more than 600 operators.
Sawaher connects camera networks to advanced operations rooms for round-the-clock monitoring of high-density areas. The platform analyses real-time data on crowd movement and human flows, enabling authorities to make rapid, data-driven decisions. This proactive capability allows security teams to respond instantly to shifting field conditions, accurately count pilgrims, mitigate congestion, and ensure a safe and seamless Hajj experience.
- Details
- Louise Waters
- Middle East
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 27th May 2026
- Year: 2026
SAL Logistics Services, a leader in cargo handling, logistics solutions, and supply chain management in Saudi Arabia, has announced that its HSSE Integrated Management System has been triple ISO certified
This accreditation unifies three internationally recognised ISO standards within a cohesive governance framework, following a rigorous external audit conducted to the highest global standards. The integrated accreditation encompasses compliance with (ISO 45001) for occupational health and safety, (ISO 14001) for environmental management, and (ISO 18788) for security operations management, reflecting SAL's commitment to implementing global best practices in safety, sustainability, and security.
SAL is the first Saudi company in the logistics sector to receive this integrated certification, says the company, which pays tribute to the expertise and dedication of its operations team, supported by its advanced operational capabilities across its main hubs in various regions of the Kingdom.
SAL has built up a distinguished portfolio of international certifications, most notably ISO 9001 for Quality Management, ISO 22301 for Business Continuity Management, and the prestigious IATA ISAGO certification, underscoring its commitment to excellence in ground handling services and adherence to the highest operational safety standards.
This milestone further reinforces SAL's dedication to supporting the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program, as the company continues to instill these standards across its operational sites, contributing to enhancing the Kingdom's position as a global logistics hub.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Middle East
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 25th May 2026
- Year: 2026
The Qatari Ministry of Labour has stepped up workplace inspection and awareness initiatives as part of wider efforts to improve occupational health and safety standards across the country.
The ministry said its 2025 campaigns contributed to a noticeable reduction in workplace and accommodation-related injuries through increased monitoring, education and compliance activities.
According to figures released by the ministry, more than 30,000 inspection visits were carried out during the year, including over 20,000 inspections at worksites across various sectors. Authorities also organised hundreds of field awareness campaigns combining site visits, workshops and direct engagement with workers and employers.
In addition, nearly 10,000 awareness programmes were delivered at workers’ accommodation facilities to promote safer living conditions and reinforce occupational safety practices.
The ministry noted that the initiatives focused on strengthening adherence to labour regulations while encouraging a stronger culture of workplace safety. Officials highlighted the importance of continuous training and awareness programmes in helping reduce accidents and improving overall productivity.
The announcement coincided with the observance of the World Day for Safety and Health at Work, marked annually on 28 April to raise awareness of occupational risks and preventive measures worldwide.
The ministry stressed that ensuring safe and healthy working environments remains central to supporting employee wellbeing, innovation and operational efficiency. It added that protecting workers’ physical and mental health continues to be a key priority under the country’s labour development strategy.
Officials also said the campaigns support the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030 by promoting a sustainable labour market and improving quality of life for workers across the country.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Middle East
- Topic: Security
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 22nd May 2026
- Year: 2026
Sharjah Police has announced a comprehensive security and traffic strategy ahead of Eid Al Adha, aimed at ensuring public safety, smooth mobility and a calm festive environment across the emirate.
The plan, developed in coordination with relevant authorities, includes increased patrol deployment and heightened monitoring around mosques, key roads and public gathering areas. Command centres will oversee traffic flow in real time, while field teams will be positioned to respond quickly to incidents or disruptions during the holiday period.
Brigadier Omar Al Ghazal, Director General of the General Department of Operations and Security Support, said the approach focuses on prevention and rapid response to maintain order throughout the celebrations.
He noted that surveillance efforts will be strengthened to discourage behaviours that could disrupt public convenience, including illegal parking near mosques, markets and entertainment zones, as well as unlawful activities such as begging that may affect traffic and public comfort.
The plan also places emphasis on residential security, with residents encouraged to secure their homes properly before travelling. Authorities urged the public to ensure doors, windows and valuables are safely protected to reduce the risk of incidents during the holiday.
Special attention has also been given to child safety, particularly in swimming areas and at beaches, where awareness campaigns will reinforce the importance of constant supervision to prevent accidents.
Sharjah Police further reminded the public to report emergencies via 999 and non-emergency concerns via 901, ensuring timely assistance throughout the Eid period.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Middle East
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 21st May 2026
- Year: 2026
ADNOC has deployed Taurob’s heavy-duty inspection robot at its Taweelah Gas Compression Plant, introducing autonomous monitoring capabilities designed to improve safety in high-risk industrial environments.
The robot is now carrying out routine inspections on site, acting as a first layer of surveillance to detect potential gas leaks, temperature anomalies and other operational hazards. Equipped with advanced sensing systems, including 3D LiDAR and 360-degree thermal imaging, it is built to operate in extreme conditions while reducing the need for human exposure to dangerous areas.
By integrating robotics into daily operations, ADNOC aims to strengthen early hazard detection and enhance decision-making for its engineering teams. The system supports continuous monitoring and provides real-time data to improve plant safety and reliability.
In parallel, ADNOC announced plans to advance its robotics programme through the development of a heavy-duty “operator” robot capable of not only visual inspection but also physical interaction with industrial equipment. The next-generation system, being developed under the ARGOS Joint Industry Project with partners including Equinor, TotalEnergies, and others, is expected to handle tasks such as valve operation and equipment manipulation in hazardous zones. It is designed for deployment in temperatures ranging from –20°C to 60°C and is targeted for operation by the end of 2026.
Dena Almansoori, ADNOC’s Group Chief Technology and Innovation Officer, said robotics and artificial intelligence were central to the company’s long-term operational strategy.
She said: “Artificial and physical intelligence are transforming how we operate across our value chain. At Taweelah, autonomous robots are already active in live environments, supporting safer and more efficient operations. This innovation is enhancing safety, reducing emissions and strengthening performance in line with national AI and robotics strategies.”
The initiative forms part of ADNOC’s wider integration of AI, robotics and digital monitoring systems across its operations to reduce risk exposure and improve industrial safety performance.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- North America
- Topic: HSE
- Region: North America
- Date: 20th May 2026
- Year: 2026
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration concluded its 13th annual National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction earlier this month, encouraging employers and workers across the United States to strengthen awareness around fall hazards and workplace safety practices.
Held from 4-8 May 2026, the nationwide initiative focused on reducing falls, which remain one of the leading causes of fatalities within the construction sector. The campaign promoted greater emphasis on planning, employee training and hazard identification to improve safety performance on jobsites.
Throughout the week, employers were encouraged to temporarily halt work activities and conduct safety-focused sessions, including toolbox talks, fall prevention training, hazard recognition exercises and equipment demonstrations. Particular attention was given to risks linked to roofing operations, scaffolding and ladder use.
Assistant Secretary for Occupational Safety and Health David Keeling participated in a Stand-Down event held at the Henry Bacon Ball Field on the National Mall, where several infrastructure and construction projects are underway. OSHA representatives also attended events organised in different parts of the country.
The initiative formed part of OSHA’s wider Fall Prevention Campaign and was delivered in collaboration with organisations including The Center for Construction Research and Training, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health and the NORA Construction Sector Council.
OSHA also announced plans to strengthen cooperation with Construction Safety Week through a new alliance aimed at supporting worker wellbeing and preventing serious incidents across the construction project lifecycle.
Since its launch in 2012, the Stand-Down campaign has helped train millions of workers and promote stronger safety awareness throughout the industry.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Middle East
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 19th May 2026
- Year: 2026
ENOC Group has celebrated the achievements of its workforce at its 2026 annual awards ceremony, recognising 456 employees for their contributions to performance, innovation and operational excellence across the organisation.
The event took place on 12 May at the Al Ras Ballroom, InterContinental Dubai Festival City, bringing together staff and leadership to highlight individual and team successes that have supported the Group’s continued growth in the energy sector.
The awards form part of ENOC’s broader effort to embed a culture of continuous improvement and recognise employees who have played a role in strengthening the company’s competitiveness and service delivery.
Hussain Sultan Lootah, Group CEO of ENOC, said the ceremony reflected the company’s appreciation for its people and their ongoing contribution to organisational success.
He said: “The ENOC Awards ceremony reflects our deep appreciation for our employees, whose dedication and contributions remain central to the Group’s ongoing success and excellence. We are proud to recognise their achievements, which embody our culture of excellence, innovation and collaboration, and continue to support our journey towards sustainable growth and long-term success.”
The awards spanned five main categories. Human resources awards recognised 290 employees for leadership, performance and engagement, including progress in Emiratisation initiatives. Quality awards highlighted achievements in innovation and business excellence, with recognition given across process improvement, quality performance and operational enhancements.
Additional categories included awards for external recognition across departments, health, safety and environment excellence, as well as sustainability-focused achievements covering climate action, energy efficiency and corporate social responsibility.
The ceremony underscored ENOC’s emphasis on acknowledging employee contributions while reinforcing its long-term commitment to performance, sustainability and organisational development.
- Details
- Louise Waters
- Middle East
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 18th May 2026
- Year: 2026
Dubai Municipality’s health and safety leadership has been recognised with several leading local, regional, and international awards during the first quarter of 2026
In the field of security and safety, Dubai Municipality won first place at the INTERSEC Awards 2026 in the “Rising Emirati Talent in Security and Safety” category through the “Development of Security Systems Across Dubai Municipality Sites” project, presented by Eng. Khalid Karam Mubarak, Senior Security Systems Engineer. The project aims to enhance operational safety and security across municipal assets and facilities, strengthen risk response readiness, support digital transformation in government security systems, and leverage artificial intelligence and smart analytics technologies in monitoring and decision-making.
As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen occupational health and safety culture, Dubai Municipality also received several recognitions from the British Safety Council, most notably the “Distinction” grade in the International Safety Award 2026, in recognition of its efforts to establish a safe working environment supported by clear performance indicators, effective control systems, and high emergency preparedness standards. These efforts ensure the safety of employees, visitors, and customers while enhancing workplace wellbeing and operational resilience.
In addition, all Dubai public parks received the International Safety Award for the first time, reflecting the strength of the Municipality’s integrated safety systems across recreational facilities and its commitment to providing safe and attractive public spaces for all members of the community.
Dubai Municipality’s Occupational Health and Safety System Initiative also received the same award, reaffirming the effectiveness of the Municipality’s integrated approach to occupational health and safety management and supporting workplace sustainability and workforce preparedness.
Dubai Municipality also secured first place in the “Achieving the Highest Health and Safety Standards” category for public beaches, after attaining advanced levels in occupational and public safety standards for both employees and visitors and maintaining a safe, accident-free beach environment that enhances visitor experiences and promotes wellbeing.
In the field of municipal services and environmental sustainability, Dubai Municipality won the Global Recognition Award 2026 in the Services category, in recognition of its excellence in maintaining city cleanliness, environmental sustainability, and Dubai’s urban appearance. The award reflects an integrated institutional approach built on innovation and data-driven operations management in waste management, urban planning, and environmental responsibility, further strengthening Dubai’s position as a global model for integrated urban governance that places people and sustainability at the centre of development priorities.
Dubai Municipality also secured first place in the “Leadership and Innovation” category in the Global Recognition Award 2026 for its initiative to develop the public beaches management system, which has elevated Dubai’s beach experience into a global model for safety, sustainability, and service excellence, further enhancing the emirate’s position as a preferred destination to live, work, and visit.