List of Top 10 Hardest-Working Countries in the World | Is India in the List too? Check Here!

Have you ever wondered which countries work the longest hours in the world? Some nations record over 2,000 working hours per person each year, demonstrating the commitment of their workforces. These countries are known not only for hard work but also for efficiency. Their strong work culture helps them achieve higher productivity, better economic growth, and improved living standards. Many of them also enjoy benefits like strong social systems, better infrastructure, and stable job opportunities. Hard-working countries often have a clear focus on skill development, technology, and discipline. 

This balance allows them to turn long hours into tangible results. Some nations even maintain employment rates above 70%, demonstrating the active and dedicated nature of their labour force. But do you know which country ranks as the hardest-working in the world? In this article, we'll take a closer look at the world's hardest-working countries and what makes them stand out.

List of the World's Hardest-Working Countries in 2025

According to data from World Population Review, Bhutan is the hardest-working country in the world. Workers in Bhutan put in about 54.5 hours per week, the highest on the list. Men work around 55 hours, and women work about 53.7 hours each week. Bhutan's people work long hours to support farming, small businesses, tourism, and craft industries, which are key parts of its economy.

1. Bhutan

Bhutan is the hardest-working country in the world. People work about 54.5 hours every week on average. Both men and women spend a lot of time working. Agriculture and tourism are the main jobs. People are very committed to their work. The country is small, but the work culture is strong. Many people work long hours to help their families. The government supports workers as well.

2. Sudan

Sudan comes second in working hours with about 50.8 hours per week. Men work around 51.9 hours, and women work less, about 45.7 hours weekly. The work culture is traditional and respects hierarchy. Workplace relationships are strong and vital. Sudan's economy depends on farming and trade. People work long hours to support their families and communities. Despite challenges, workers are busy and active all week.

3. Lesotho

Lesotho is the third-hardest-working country, with an average of 50.2 hours per week. Men work about 51.5 hours per week, and women work about 48.4 hours per week. The government relies on agriculture and mining. Many workers also go abroad for jobs. Life is tough, so people work hard to earn money. Many families depend on these incomes. The strong work hours show the effort people put into their jobs.

4. Republic of the Congo

In the Republic of the Congo, people work about 48.7 hours per week. Both men and women put in long hours at their jobs to support their families. The country depends mainly on oil, mining, and agriculture. Work can be challenging, but people are used to extended hours. The government has tried to improve working conditions. However, economic demands keep people busy for many hours.

5. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

People in the UAE work about 48.4 hours per week. Men and women share similar work hours, about 48 hours each. The country has a modern and fast-growing economy. Many jobs are in construction, tourism, and services. Workers include UAE nationals and many foreign workers. The work culture is competitive and efficient. Many people work long hours to earn well and support their families. The UAE has laws to protect workers and ensure safety.

6. São Tomé and Príncipe

São Tomé and Príncipe is one of the hardest-working countries in the world. Workers here put in an average of 48.2 hours per week, which is higher than in many larger nations. Men work around 47.5 hours, while women work about 48.9 hours each week. This shows strong dedication across the workforce. Hard work supports the country's small but growing economy. It helps improve farming, fishing, tourism and local businesses. Long working hours also help families earn more and support community development.

7. Jordan

Jordanians work about 47.8 hours each week. Men work 48.5 hours, while women work less, around 43.6 hours. The country's economy includes services, manufacturing, and agriculture. Work demands are rising due to development and population needs. Jordan has a young workforce eager to build their careers. Many workers face long hours to meet economic goals.

8. Liberia

Liberia has an average of 47.5 working hours weekly. Men work about 49 hours; women about 45.9 hours. The country is rebuilding after conflicts and focuses on infrastructure and services. Many jobs are manual and labour-intensive. Long working hours reflect the effort to grow the economy. People work hard to support families and rebuild communities.

9. Pakistan

In Pakistan, the average workweek is about 47.9 hours. Men work longer hours, around 51.1 hours weekly, while women work fewer hours. The country has a strong agricultural base, along with manufacturing and services. Many people work in both rural and urban areas. Economic pressures and family needs cause long workdays. Pakistanis are known for hard-working attitudes and persistence. Despite challenges, workers stay busy to improve their lives.

10. Qatar

In Qatar, people work about 46.8 hours per week. Both men and women work long hours. Qatar has a prosperous economy based on oil and gas. Many workers come from abroad. The country is rapidly growing, with significant development in the construction and service sectors. Work regulations are improving to protect workers' rights. Many people put in long hours to benefit from the booming economy.

15. India 

India is one of the hardest-working countries in the world. Workers here put in an average of 45.8 hours per week, showing strong commitment and discipline. Men work about 49.8 hours per week, while women work about 35.9 hours per week. This means men work more hours on average, but both contribute to the nation's growth. India's hard work supports its fast-growing economy. The country's most significant booming sectors include IT services, manufacturing, construction, retail, and healthcare.

These sectors create millions of jobs and demand long working hours. The IT sector is robust, with many employees working late to support global clients. Manufacturing and construction also require long shifts to meet rising demand. Hard-working people help build better roads, stronger industries, and advanced digital services in India.

Which Country Has The Hardest Workers?

According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO) 2025 data, the leader is Bhutan, where people work an average of 54.5 hours per week. Countries with high weekly hours tend to be developing economies where longer hours reflect economic necessity, limited automation and labour-intensive sectors.

Which Is The Most Overworked Country In The World?

It is also Bhutan, since the long average weekly hours signal "overwork". For instance, over 60 % of Bhutan's workforce reportedly works more than 48 hours per week. The high hours are driven by demands in agriculture, tourism, and services with constrained resources.

Is India The Most Overworked Country?

No, while India works hard, it is not the top. India averages about 45.8 hours per week. That is high, but well below the highest figures of over 50 hours in other nations.

Which Country Is No. 1 For Salary?

Switzerland is generally ranked the highest-paying country in 2025, with average annual incomes around $95,490 and salaries more than 100% above global averages.