Saudi Arabia Empowers Workforce with 12-Week Maternity Leave and Enhanced Labor Rights

Saudi Arabia has introduced significant amendments to its labour laws, including an extension of maternity leave to 12 weeks and updates to notice period regulations.

The changes, which align with the country’s Vision 2030 initiatives to enhance employee rights and improve workplace conditions, mark a major step in strengthening labour protections and fostering a more inclusive work environment. The amendments reflect the kingdom’s ongoing efforts to modernize its labour market while ensuring compliance with international best practices.  

Under the new regulations, female employees are now entitled to 12 weeks of paid maternity leave, an increase from the previous 10 weeks. This aligns with global labour standards and aims to provide working mothers with more time to recover from childbirth and care for their newborns. The revised maternity leave policy also ensures that employees receive their full salary for the duration of the leave, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to supporting women in the workforce. Additionally, fathers are also granted paternity leave, although its duration remains significantly shorter in comparison.  

The updated labour law also introduces changes to notice period requirements, impacting both employers and employees. Previously, the notice period for terminating indefinite-term employment contracts varied, leading to inconsistencies in enforcement. Under the new provisions, employees on indefinite contracts must provide at least 90 days’ notice before resigning, while employers must offer the same notice period before terminating an employee. This adjustment ensures greater job security and gives both parties sufficient time to transition or find replacements.  

One of the key objectives behind these reforms is to encourage greater female participation in the workforce, a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification plans. By offering longer maternity leave and stronger job protections, the government aims to create a more supportive environment for working women, particularly those balancing career and family responsibilities. This move is expected to boost employment rates among Saudi women, who have seen increasing representation in the labour market in recent years.  

Beyond maternity leave and notice periods, the new labour laws also reinforce workplace equality and address issues such as job security, working conditions, and employer responsibilities. Companies are now required to implement policies that ensure a safe and inclusive work environment, reducing gender-based discrimination and promoting fair treatment for all employees. These measures align with Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to enhance its business climate and attract both local and international talent.  

The private sector is expected to play a crucial role in implementing these new labour policies. Employers are encouraged to update their internal HR policies to comply with the revised regulations and ensure that employees are aware of their rights. Businesses that fail to adhere to these updated labour standards may face penalties, reinforcing the government’s commitment to enforcing these new protections.  

Saudi Arabia’s ongoing labour reforms are part of a broader strategy to create a competitive and modern workforce that aligns with global standards. The changes not only benefit employees but also enhance the kingdom’s appeal as a business-friendly destination for investors and multinational corporations. By prioritizing worker rights and job stability, Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its economic foundation while promoting sustainable growth.  

As these new regulations take effect, their impact on the labour market will be closely monitored. The extension of maternity leave is expected to improve employee retention rates, particularly for women, while the standardized notice period ensures greater transparency and predictability in employment contracts. These developments mark another step forward in Saudi Arabia’s journey toward a more progressive and inclusive work environment, reinforcing its position as a leader in labour market reforms in the region.

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