Middle East

• Topic: Industrial
• Date: 20th March 2026
• Year: 2026

Shell plc has provided an update on its operations in Qatar following recent developments affecting its facilities in the region

At the centre of the update is the Pearl gas-to-liquids (GTL) plant, a two-train facility with equal capacity, producing around 140,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day from approximately 1,600 million standard cubic feet per day of feed gas. According to the company, one of the trains sustained damage during an attack on 18 March 2026.

Prior to the incident, the facility had already been operating at reduced levels, with exports constrained due to the disruption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Following the attack, production across the entire Pearl GTL facility has now been halted to allow for a full assessment of the damage.

Shell confirmed that the safety and security of its employees and contractors remain its highest priority, noting that all personnel at the site are safe. The incident occurred in Ras Laffan Industrial City, where a fire broke out within the Pearl GTL complex as a result of the attack. The fire was quickly brought under control, and the facility has since been stabilised.

The company added that it is working closely with QatarEnergy, as well as local authorities, partners and customers, to assess the extent of the damage and understand the broader impact on infrastructure within Ras Laffan.

In a related update, Shell noted that LNG production in Qatar has remained shut down since early March.

Further updates are expected as assessments continue.

• Topic: Industrial
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 19th March 2026
• Year: 2026

The Qatar Civil Aviation Authority has outlined the coordinated response undertaken to safeguard aviation operations following the closure of Qatar’s airspace on 28 February 2026, which was partially reopened on 7 March.

In an update shared on Instagram, the authority noted that multiple operational and support divisions worked together closely, alongside relevant stakeholders, to manage the situation effectively.

During the disruption, the Air Navigation Department played a critical role in ensuring flight safety. It guided nearby aircraft to land at Hamad International Airport and arranged diversions to alternative airports where necessary. Additionally, an emergency air corridor (L564) was operated for eight hours daily to support controlled air traffic movement.

The Air Safety Department introduced several temporary measures to maintain compliance and continuity. These included granting exceptional approvals to 68 foreign maintenance organisations and five maintenance stations operated by Qatar Airways. It also extended Airworthiness Review Certificates for 14 aircraft until required inspections could be completed in Doha, and issued an Emergency Public Notice to direct passengers and personnel to designated safe zones.

On the security front, continuous coordination was maintained with local authorities and neighbouring airports, supported by intensified on-ground inspections and the release of regional safety guidance to reinforce aviation security protocols.

Efforts to manage passenger flow were led by the Air Transport Department, which facilitated travel and repatriation arrangements. Meanwhile, the Firefighting and Rescue Department activated emergency response plans, enhanced equipment readiness, ensured the availability of firefighting resources and reorganised teams to maintain uninterrupted operations.

The QCAA reaffirmed its focus on maintaining the highest standards of aviation safety as the situation continues to evolve.

• Date: 18th March 2026
• Year: 2026

Qatar's Ministry of Interior has urged the public to follow precautionary measures when organising social gatherings, including weddings and condolence events, in response to current conditions.

In a statement, the ministry advised that all such events should be held exclusively in approved indoor venues and designated halls. It warned against hosting gatherings in tents or open-air locations, citing potential safety risks that could affect attendees.

Officials emphasised the importance of complying fully with guidance issued by relevant authorities and avoiding practices that may pose a threat to individuals or the wider community. The ministry highlighted that ensuring safety during events is a shared responsibility, requiring cooperation from organisers and participants alike.

The guidance forms part of broader efforts to reduce risk exposure and maintain public safety during a period of heightened caution. Authorities noted that adherence to official instructions is critical to preventing incidents and ensuring that gatherings can take place in a controlled and secure environment.

The ministry also acknowledged the role of community awareness in supporting these efforts, stating that public cooperation is key to maintaining safety standards and protecting lives and property.

It added that continued compliance with safety measures will contribute to preserving stability and reinforcing confidence in public safety systems.

• Topic: HSE
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 16th March 2026
• Year: 2026

Amid a natural gas shortage in Qatar, Hydro’s joint venture Qatalum has begun a controlled shutdown of its aluminium production

The controlled shutdown of the Qatalum smelter began on March 3 and is scheduled for completion by the end of the month. This step follows notification from the company’s gas supplier regarding an upcoming suspension in gas supply.

The purpose of the controlled shutdown is to reduce potential health, environmental and safety risks, while also preparing the facility for a possible restart in the future. If operations are halted completely, a full restart could take between six and twelve months, although the exact timing for resumption remains uncertain.

Hydro is currently engaging with customers, taking steps to lessen the impact, and exploring alternative channels to meet its contractual obligations. Ensuring the safety of Qatalum’s workforce continues to be its top priority.

Following the halt in aluminium production at Qatalum, Hydro has issued a Force Majeure notice to its customers associated with the facility.

Qatalum operates as a 50/50 joint venture between Hydro and Qatar Aluminum Manufacturing Company Q.P.S.C. (QAMCO). The facility has a production capacity of 648,000 metric tonnes of primary aluminium and a casthouse capacity of 687,000 metric tonnes. It is a fully integrated operation, comprising a smelter, casthouse, carbon plant, and a dedicated gas-fired power plant.

The Ministry of Interior Qatar has released a set of workplace safety guidelines aimed at helping employees respond effectively during precautionary security alerts.

The measures are part of wider efforts by authorities to strengthen public awareness of safety procedures and ensure organisations across the country are better prepared to manage potential security situations.

According to the ministry, employees working in government, semi-government and private sector organisations must treat national alerts issued through official channels with seriousness and follow instructions immediately. Workers have also been urged to rely only on verified updates from official sources and avoid sharing rumours or unconfirmed information that could cause confusion.

The guidance emphasises that staff should follow the directions of workplace security teams and relevant authorities at all times, rather than attempting to interpret security warnings independently.

A key focus of the recommendations is ensuring safe behaviour inside buildings when precautionary alerts are issued. Employees are advised to remain indoors and avoid leaving their workplaces unless specifically instructed to do so by authorities. Maintaining calm and avoiding panic are considered essential in ensuring that emergency procedures can be implemented effectively.

Further safety guidance

The ministry also recommends that workers stay away from windows, glass façades and other exposed areas during alerts. Employees are encouraged to minimise movement between different floors or buildings and maintain distance from potential hazards such as energy sources or flammable materials.

Preparedness is another important aspect of the guidelines. Staff members are encouraged to familiarise themselves with emergency exits, evacuation routes and designated assembly points within their workplaces. In the event that evacuation becomes necessary, authorities advise employees to use staircases and emergency exits rather than elevators.

The ministry highlighted the importance of maintaining order during evacuations. Workers are urged to avoid pushing or crowding when moving towards safe areas and to ensure that corridors and emergency exits remain clear so that people can leave buildings quickly if required.

Guidance has also been provided for individuals who may be outdoors when an incident occurs. In such cases, people are advised to move to the nearest safe indoor location and remain there until authorities confirm that the situation is under control.

Employees are also encouraged to report suspicious objects or unusual observations through official organisational channels or directly to relevant authorities. The ministry warned individuals not to touch or approach unidentified objects or fragments that may pose a risk.

To support effective emergency response, organisations are expected to ensure that safety departments maintain clear evacuation routes and functioning emergency procedures.

Transport officials from Gulf Cooperation Council countries have discussed emergency measures aimed at maintaining the safe and efficient movement of goods and passengers across the region amid ongoing regional tensions.

The 28th extraordinary meeting of the Committee of Transport Undersecretaries of the Gulf Cooperation Council was chaired by HE Fatima Abdulla Al Dhaen and held virtually with representatives from GCC member states.

Al Dhaen is the Undersecretary for Land Transport and Post Affairs at Bahrain's Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications.  

During the meeting, officials reviewed a range of exceptional steps designed to support land transport operations following recent Iranian attacks affecting regional logistics routes. Ensuring the continued movement of freight and passenger transport between member states was a central focus of the discussions.

Participants examined mechanisms to facilitate cross-border transport, including the temporary allowance for empty trucks and buses to pass through land borders. The measure aims to help transport operators reposition vehicles and maintain supply chains during disruptions.

Officials also considered certain exemptions related to vehicle operational age limits. The proposal is intended to ensure sufficient transport capacity during the current period while maintaining oversight of vehicle safety and compliance standards.

The committee emphasised the need for close coordination among member states to ensure that emergency policies are applied consistently across borders. Such collaboration is expected to minimise delays, support supply chain resilience and maintain stable transport operations during periods of uncertainty.

Aluminium Bahrain (Alba), the world’s largest single-site aluminium smelter, has declared force majeure on metal deliveries due to severe shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz caused by ongoing Middle East conflict.

The company stressed that its smelter facilities remain fully operational with no damage or production halt.

Alba’s “Safety First, Safety Always” commitment shone through as the company achieved a record 44 million safe working hours without a lost-time injury (LTI) in February 2026, a milestone celebrated just weeks before the disruptions.

"Congratulations to Alba Family for achieving 44 million SAFE working-hours without a single lost time injury (LTI) on 14 February 2026. Safety is the backbone of our operations. By adhering to ‘Stop, Think, and Act', we strengthen our drive toward the Safety 5-Star Objective and raise the bar for Safety Excellence," the company had said on a post on its social media handles. 

Earlier in February, Alba launched its women-led Ramadan Safety Campaign, focusing on employee health, fatigue management, and emergency preparedness during the holy month.

No worker injuries were reported despite the external crisis, highlighting robust risk assessments and contractor safety protocols that kept the entire workforce protected while production continued uninterrupted.

Following safety protocols, the company also held its 16th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Thursday 12 March 2026, via virtual attendance, in accordance with applicable regulations. 

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, has issued a new law on public safety in the Emirate of Dubai, aimed at establishing a clear legislative framework to ensure high safety standards in public spaces, the reduction of accidents and the safety and safe use of public services and products

Dubai Municipality’s Environment, Health and Safety Agency is tasked with overseeing Law No. (2) of 2026, in coordination with relevant authorities.

The law, which comes into effect on 1 June, has a key focus on public safety for venues and events, setting out the rules and responsibilities of operators and event organisers. It covers areas such as equipment standards, lighting and ventilation, crowd control, and noise levels. Venues and events are required to provide fire-fighting equipment, first-aid supplies, trained safety supervisors, alarm systems, and safety signs. They must have emergency evacuation measures, and a public safety management plan to protect attendees.

The law also establishes public safety standards and requirements for maintenance and equipment in buildings and homes, swimming pools and beaches.

Engaging the public and raising community awareness is another focus. The law specifies the responsibilities of the public, requiring them to comply with all public safety procedures and guidelines.

On potentially hazardous products, the law prohibits handling explosives, fireworks, toxic or flammable materials, or other unsafe products without authorisation, and gives instructions for the handling and treatment of dangerous materials. Using or selling any tools or products that do not meet the public safety requirements or which pose a risk to public safety are forbidden. Items must also include safety instructions in both Arabic and English.

Flouting the law can incur fines of between AED500 and AED1,000,000, which can be doubled up to AED2,000,000 for repeat offences.

According to law firm Al Suwaidi, Law No. (2) of 2026 signals Dubai’s continued emphasis on strengthening compliance frameworks in areas affecting public safety, reflecting Dubai’s broader commitment to maintaining high safety standards while supporting the Emirate’s position as a global hub for tourism, events and commercial activity.

Bapco Energies declared force majeure on its group operations after an Iranian drone strike hit the Al-Ma’ameer refinery complex on Sitra Island, igniting a fire in one unit.

Bahrain’s Ministry of Interior confirmed the blaze was fully extinguished within hours, with refinery operations continuing and only minor material damage reported.

The incident demonstrated the strength of Bapco’s occupational health and safety systems, including advanced fire-suppression infrastructure and rapid emergency response teams.

Critically, zero injuries or casualties occurred among workers despite the direct external threat, a testament to effective evacuation drills, hazard communication, and crisis management plans tailored for industrial sites in high-risk environments.

The company’s swift containment prevented what could have been a major lost-time incident, reinforcing Bahrain’s progress in protecting its energy-sector workforce during geopolitical challenges.

While the incidents stemmed from external conflict rather than routine workplace hazards, they underscore the importance of strong emergency preparedness and safety culture in Bahrain’s key industries.

People in Saudi Arabia and across the Middle East studying for professional occupational safety and health exams have been offered support in the wake of heightened geopolitical tensions in the region.

The National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH), a leading global organisation that provides health, safety and environmental (HSE) qualifications, extended its support in the wake of US air attacks on Iran and subsequent reprisals across the Gulf and beyond.

“We understand that some learners may be unable to take or submit upcoming assessments as planned,” it noted in a statement on its website.

“If this applies to you, we will refund your assessment fees to your Learning Partner so that you can rebook for another assessment in the future.”

It urged those affected to contact their Learning Partner, who will then liaise with NEBOSH directly.

“We know that extenuating circumstances — such as a conflict — may prevent learners from completing all their qualification units in the specified timeframe, and we will work with you to find a solution if this is the case,” it added in the statement.

“Our Certificate Unit Validity Extension Policy outlines the criteria for accepting extension requests and the supporting documentation we require.”

It said the policies and requests can be used by learners based in any country, with all requests considered on a case-by-case basis.

“NEBOSH is saddened by the recent unrest affecting the Middle East. If you have been affected, we hope that you, your family and your colleagues are safe.”

Tens of thousands of people from more than 150 countries study for a NEBOSH qualification every year.

Saudi organisations have been urged to “rethink how they recruit, train, and supervise workers in high‑risk environments” ahead of new legislation taking effect later this year.

Riyadh-based employment law expert Dr. Sairah Narmah-Alqasim of Pinsent Masons made the recommendation after the Regulation on Organising Work in High-Risk Professions was adopted in Saudi Arabia.

In an insight article posted on the law firm’s website, it noted that the regulation, which will come into effect on 3 July, is highly relevant to employers operating in sectors where work involves elevated safety risks – such as construction, heavy equipment operations, welding, cutting, and mechanical work – and that it raises the bar for workplace safety and compliance.

The regulation provides a framework for the classification of certain occupations as ‘high-risk’, and associated obligations on both employers where employees and workers fall into that category, the article noted. Obligations also fall on individual employees and workers where they are considered to perform a high-risk role.

Each employer is responsible for determining whether their employees or workers are undertaking “high-risk profession activities”, which is a broad concept, the paper added.

According to the regulation, this might include where the person is working at height or in confined spaces; working under high temperatures or sunlight; involved in manual lifting and transportation of loads; moving vehicles or equipment; dealing with noise, heat or vibrations; involved in welding or cutting; dealing with chemicals, radiation or medical waste; or working in remote isolation from other people and “vital” facilities. The regulation contains a wider list of examples.

“The nature of the task is, however, not wholly determinative of whether the occupation of a worker/employee is classified as high-risk,” the article added. “Employers must make that assessment based on a range of other criteria, which include referencing the person’s job description, the type, method and duration of their exposure to materials or factors, and data on the number of fatalities and accidents associated with the role.”

Where the employer considers that it does oversee high-risk occupations, it must satisfy itself that existing employees and workers as well as new joiners undergo medical training and examinations. Employees and workers will be required to pass medical fitness examinations to obtain a licence enabling them to perform the high-risk role, and employers have a duty to avoid tasks in high-risk professions being assigned to individuals where they do not have the necessary licence in place. The regulation provides a process for people to challenge the outcome of those examinations where they are not passed as fit for the role.

For some roles, specialist training will need to be completed before work can be performed, while all workers and employees – and their supervisors – will also need to “possess the necessary cognitive and technical capabilities in the field of occupational safety and health, commensurate with the nature of the risks associated with their actual work” to perform high-risk roles.

Various other obligations fall on employers under the regulation, including duties to notify hazards that may affect the safety and health of workers or employee during the performance of their work, and to investigate and report workplace accidents.

“The introduction of the new regulation marks a decisive shift in how employers must manage safety‑critical roles,” said Dr. Sairah Narmah-Alqasim of Pinsent Masons. “It represents a structural change in the labour market that will require organisations to rethink how they recruit, train, and supervise workers in high‑risk environments.”

Sadia Farooq, also of Pinsent Masons, added: “By introducing mandatory licensing, competency standards, and accreditation requirements, the regulation raises expectations for both employers and service providers, and it will quickly expose gaps in existing workforce capabilities.”

Dr. Sairah Narmah-Alqasim, confirmed the regulation will have a significant commercial impact: “Companies that act early will be better positioned to avoid operational disruption, reduce safety‑related downtime, and demonstrate compliance to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.”