Saudi Arabia is set to increase maternity leave for working women to 12 weeks instead of 10 weeks starting from this month, Gulf News reported.
The decision is part of a set of substantial changes to the labor system designed basically to protect contractual rights and promote work environment.
The Saudi Ministry of Human Resources has recently stated that a worker in the Kingdom has the right to have a five-day paid leave in the state of the spouse’s death to support family ties.
Meanwhile, the worker has the right to have a five-day paid leave upon marriage to encourage the stability of families.
In addition, the ministry has set a duration for 30 days for the notice of terminating an employment contract with non-specific duration. Meanwhile, on the employer’s side, it is now put at 60 days.
As for overtime hours, all work done on holidays and Eid (Muslim festivals) are considered overtime hours. Moreover, they should ensure that workers get compensations for their efforts on these occasions.
The ministry has also specified the duration of work on a trial basis at a maximum of 180 days.
Crucially, the amendments also require the employer to avoid any acts of discrimination in employment based on race, color, sex, disability as well as social status to boost the principles of justice and equality.
Related Topics:
Saudis labor numbers in the private health sector increase by 15.4% within a year
Record Growth: Over 294,000 Saudis Join Private Sector in 2024
Global Labor Market Conference to Kick off in Riyadh
