Saudi labour law basics: hours, leave and end of service
Working hours, Ramadan hours, annual leave, probation and gratuity.
New: recent changes on this topic
If a change affects a step below, it is flagged after our editors review it.
In short
The standard week is 48 hours, reduced to 36 during Ramadan for Muslims. Annual leave is 21 days, rising to 30 after five years. End-of-service is half a month per year for the first five years, then one month per year.
- Hours
- 8/day, 48/week
- Leave
- 21–30 days
- Probation
- Up to 180 days
- Overtime
- +50%
Step by step
Tick each step as you finish it. Open a step to see what to do.
All contracts are on Qiwa.
Documents checklist
Do’s and don’ts
Do
- Keep your contract and salary records
Don’t
- Don’t give your passport to your employer – it is illegal for them to keep it
Cost estimator
Untick what doesn't apply to you. These are rough figures and fees change often, so check with the authority.
Watch out
- Salary must be paid through the Wage Protection System into a Saudi account.
Common questions
Can I change jobs?
Yes, under Labour Reform rules after 12 months or at contract end with notice.
Official links
Background and more detail
The standard week is 48 hours, reduced to 36 during Ramadan for Muslims. Annual leave is 21 days, rising to 30 after five years. End-of-service is half a month per year for the first five years, then one month per year.
Key facts
- Hours: 8/day, 48/week
- Leave: 21–30 days
- Probation: Up to 180 days
- Overtime: +50%
Steps
- Check Qiwa contract – All contracts are on Qiwa.
- Raise disputes on Musaned / MHRSD – File online first.
- Labour court – If amicable settlement fails.
Watch out
- Salary must be paid through the Wage Protection System into a Saudi account.
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