Teleworking during COVID-19: experiences from Saudi Arabia.

Abstract

Teleworking has been adopted as a response to COVID-19 to reduce the spread of the infection, while continuing business operations. Saudi Arabia was among the countries that adopted stringent teleworking policies accompanying the first documented COVID-19 case. A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted to explore experiences of employees towards teleworking as a mandated work setting during COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia. We collected data using a questionnaire that was disseminated via different social media platforms during the partial curfew in the Country. The study sample included 471 participants. Most participants (78%) were satisfied with teleworking and reported higher job efficiency (44%) and work concentration (48%), and better work-life balance (56%) and stress management (55%). The positive experience was dependent on factors, such as gender, age, marital status, educational level, working sector and teleworking mode. Men, bachelor's degree holders, nonmarried, and employees working in health and education sectors as well as working flexible hours had less positive experience than their respective counterparts. The research contributes to literature about teleworking as a legitimate alternative work arrangement, while approaching teleworking as a means to reduce risks. As the first study conducted within Saudi Arabia, the study's findings have implications for policy, practice and research.