Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has introduced groundbreaking labor reforms, prioritizing women’s rights and workplace equity. Effective February 19, 2025, women employees now receive 12 weeks of maternity leave, doubling previous provisions. Six weeks must follow childbirth, while the remaining six can flexibly align with personal needs, starting up to four weeks before delivery.
These changes aim to safeguard maternal health and foster family bonding, aligning with global standards for gender-inclusive workplaces. The reforms also mandate equal opportunities, prohibiting discrimination against women during hiring, promotions, or training.
📄 خبر صحفي |#وزارة_الموارد_البشرية_والتنمية_الاجتماعية تُعلن عن نشر اللائحة التنفيذية لتعديلات نظام العمل وملحقاتها.
🔗|| للاطلاع على اللائحة : https://t.co/DTfvvRvypi pic.twitter.com/wTIGYpu04N
— وزارة الموارد البشرية والتنمية الاجتماعية (@HRSD_SA) February 19, 2025
Probation Period Adjustments and Workplace Protections
The amended labor law extends probationary periods to 180 days, allowing employers and employees to assess suitability mutually. Crucially, women retain full rights to maternity benefits even during probation, ensuring no disadvantage for new hires.
Furthermore, employers must now provide housing, transportation, or cash allowances—a move addressing longstanding gaps in worker welfare. Contracts also require formal attestation, reducing ambiguity in employment terms.
Bereavement Leave and Overtime Flexibility
In a nod to work-life balance, the reforms grant three days of paid leave following the death of a sibling, acknowledging familial responsibilities. Additionally, overtime compensation now includes vacation days instead of monetary pay, subject to mutual agreement. This flexibility empowers women to manage workloads without sacrificing personal time.
Termination protocols now favor fairness: employees must give 30 days’ notice, while employers require 60 days, preventing abrupt job loss. The amendments also enforce stringent anti-discrimination policies, penalizing biases based on gender, age, or disability.
These reforms underscore Saudi Arabia’s commitment to Vision 2030, fostering a dynamic labor market where women thrive. By enhancing protections and flexibility, the Kingdom aims to boost workforce participation and economic growth.
