The proposal to close shops at 9 p.m. would benefit Saudi and expatriate families, especially working women, according to the chief of the Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice (Haia).

Sheikh Abdullateef Al-Asheikh said recently that women must have opportunities to work, but this must take place within a suitable working environment, with defined working hours and proper transport.

“We should support this decision, and remove all obstacles in its way. It is in the national interest and will benefit all citizens and residents in the Kingdom,” he reportedly said.

He said the measure would reorganize the working lives of people and ensure they lead dignified lives.

It creates opportunities for families to bond, and eases the burden on cities.

He said all cities in the developed world close their shops early to protect their economies.

The ruling includes all sales outlets with the exception of cafes, restaurants, food markets and pharmacies.

A committee comprising officials from the Ministries of Labor, Commerce and Industry, Municipal and Rural Affairs, Islamic Affairs, Endowments, Call and Guidance, and the Haia, has recommended that retail and sales outlets close at 9 p.m.

The proposal follows extensive discussions to define working hours at shops and commercial centers, to comply with a ruling issued by the Shoura Council five years ago.

Several businessmen said that the plan, if implemented, would be bad for business, especially since shops close twice for prayers at night, for Maghrib and Isha.

Abdullah Al-Mobty, president of the Council of Saudi Chambers, had earlier called on government to allow shops to stay open until 11 p.m.