On Tuesday, the Saudi Council of Ministers approved important changes to the Labor Law aimed at improving the work environment and supporting Saudi Vision 2030 goals.The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development announced that 38 articles were amended, seven were deleted, and two new ones were added.
Updates include expanded vacations, more training, and extended maternity leave
The new laws include several key updates: maternity leave has been extended to 12 weeks, and paid leave will now be provided in lieu of overtime wages. Additionally, trial periods for labor contracts are limited to 180 days. Notice periods for terminating indefinite contracts are also clearly defined, requiring 30 days’ notice if initiated by employees and 60 days if initiated by employers.
The amendments were developed through extensive research and feedback from over 1,300 participants
The Kingdom collected feedback from private sector establishments, government agencies, and experts. Saudi’s primary goal is to enhance job stability, protect workers’ rights, and support small and medium enterprises, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030.