Wednesday, February 19, 2025
New amendments of Saudi Labor Law come into effect in Saudi Arabia
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development implemented amendments to the Saudi Labor Law on Wednesday, February 19, 2025. These amendments are based on Cabinet Resolution No. (117) issued on 02/02/1446 AH, which in turn is based on Royal Decree No. (44) dated 02/08/1446 AH. Join Saudi Expatriates channel on WhatsApp
The goal of these changes is to make the labor market more efficient and to improve job stability so that it can better meet the needs of the private sector.
New amendments to Saudi Labor Law:
In accordance with the labor market strategy, the Saudi Labor Law has been revised to strengthen contractual relations between employers and employees, clarify and protect workers' rights, and establish a more favorable and secure workplace.
The new amendments to Saudi Labor Law include 38 articles, a removal of seven, and the addition of two new articles.
These changes, according to the Ministry, are part of a larger attempt to realize the Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to boost economic growth, create more jobs, and encourage private investment in development. Read: Saudi Arabia suspends multiple-entry visa for nationals of 14 countries.
The following are among the most important modifications to the Saudi labor law:
* It is against the law for employers to take any action that would make it harder for employees to receive equal treatment or opportunity in the workplace.
* Provides three days of paid leave to employees in the case of a sibling's death.
* Including the trainee's and employer's responsibilities and rights in the training contract.
* Expanding the duration of maternity leave for employed women up to 12 weeks. Recommended Video: New rules related to domestic workers and similar professions in Saudi Arabia
* There is a possibility of consenting to accept paid leave in exchange for the wage that applies to overtime hours.
* The employment contract must specify the probationary period, which must not exceed 180 days in any instance.
* The notice period for the termination of an open-ended contract will be amended to 30 days for employees and 60 days for employers.
* In the absence of a response from the employer within 30 days after submission of the resignation request, it is considered accepted. See Also: Saudi Arabia launches "In the Prophet's steps" initiative
New amendments of Saudi Labor Law come into effect in Saudi Arabia
