In Sudan, the labor law sets a framework for standard working hours. The legal maximum for a standard workweek is 48 hours. This translates to a maximum of 8 hours per day.

In Sudan, overtime work is permitted under specific regulations to ensure fair treatment of employees and adherence to maximum working hours.

Rules for Overtime Work

• Agreement: Overtime work must be agreed upon by both the employer and the employee. There's no obligation for an employee to accept overtime work.
• Maximum Limits: Overtime hours are capped at 4 hours per day and 12 hours per week. Exceptions exist for cases of force majeure, where these limits might not apply.
• Gender and Overtime: Overtime work is optional for women in Sudan.

Compensation for Overtime Work

• Regular Working Days: Overtime hours worked during regular working days are compensated at a rate of 150% of the regular hourly wage. This translates to receiving one and a half times the regular wage for each overtime hour worked.
• Public Holidays and Weekly Rest Days: Overtime hours on public holidays or weekly rest days are compensated at a rate of 200% of the regular hourly wage. This means employees receive double their regular wage for each overtime hour worked on these days.

In Sudan, labor law mandates rest periods and breaks for employees to ensure their well-being and prevent fatigue during working hours.

Daily Rest Breaks

• Workers are entitled to a paid rest period of at least 30 minutes per workday for meals and rest.
• The competent authority, after consulting with the Labour Relations Council, can modify the rest break duration based on the nature and type of work.

Weekly Rest Day

• All employees have the right to a weekly rest period of at least 24 consecutive hours.
• Employers must allow workers to take their weekly rest day on a customary day or on a mutually agreed-upon alternative day.

Ramadan Working Hours

• During the holy month of Ramadan, daily working hours are reduced. This translates to a shorter workday to account for potential fasting practices.

In Sudan, labor law acknowledges the unique challenges associated with night and weekend work. Specific regulations are in place to ensure fair treatment and well-being for employees working outside standard business hours.

Night work is generally defined as work performed between 10 pm and 6 am. Night shift workers are entitled to a wage surcharge on top of their regular pay. The exact percentage increase might vary depending on the specific industry or collective bargaining agreements. Employers have a responsibility to prioritize the health and safety of night shift workers by implementing appropriate measures. This could include providing adequate lighting, rest areas, and potentially medical checkups.

Specific industries or sectors might have their own regulations or collective bargaining agreements that provide further details on night shift work and compensation. Consulting with the Sudanese Ministry of Labor or relevant industry associations is recommended for the most up-to-date information.

As for weekend work, all employees have the right to a weekly rest period of at least 24 consecutive hours. This generally applies to weekends (Friday and Saturday) but can be negotiated for an alternative day. Working on a designated weekly rest day typically requires compensation at a higher rate than regular pay. The specific increase might be outlined in individual employment contracts or collective bargaining agreements.