Saudi Labour Law

Working hours

HRSD materials describe standard actual working time as 8 hours per day or 48 hours per week. During Ramadan, actual working hours for Muslim workers are described as a maximum of 6 hours a day or 36 hours a week. Rest, prayer, and meal periods are generally excluded from actual working hours.

Leave

Under Article 109 of the Labour Law as published by HRSD, a worker is entitled to a prepaid annual leave of not less than 21 days, increased to not less than 30 days after five consecutive years with the same employer. Leave is to be taken in the year it is due; unused accrued leave is paid on separation.

• Employers must notify workers of leave dates with sufficient notice (not less than 30 days under the published text).
• Eid and occasion holidays are specified in the implementing regulations.

Employment contracts

Employment relationships should be documented in writing according to Labour Law requirements. Keep copies of contracts, wage proofs, and approvals. Probation, notice, and termination rules are set in the statute and related decisions — confirm the version that applies to your contract date.

Wages and employee rights

Workers are entitled to wages as agreed and protected under the Labour Law. Use official HRSD guidance and labour offices for wage protection, leave pay, and dispute resolution. Do not rely on verbal-only arrangements for salary, housing, or exit permissions.