Saudi Arabia implements new labour rules for workers

Significant modifications have been implemented in labor regulations in Saudi Arabia. The Saudi Ministry of Human Resources has declared that these modifications are part of a range of reforms in labor legislation. The objective of these reforms is to safeguard employees’ rights and foster an improved working atmosphere. The alterations in labor laws are a component of the labor reforms initiated in 2020, which granted greater flexibility in job transitions and eased visa requirements.

The new regulations especially favor women. These changes will also be advantageous for Indian workers. A report indicates that the updates in Saudi labor regulations have provided positive developments for working women. The duration of maternity leave for women has been extended. Working women will now be granted 12 weeks of maternity leave, an increase from the earlier 10 weeks. This alteration has taken effect this month. This will provide women with additional time to look after their children. The government thinks that this will assist women in managing work and family.

The updated regulations feature important modifications related to marriage leave, spousal death leave, resignation notice, overtime policies, and a prohibition on discrimination. In Saudi Arabia, workers will now be entitled to five days of paid leave following the death of a spouse. Likewise, five days of paid time off will be provided for marriage. If an employee intends to quit, they are required to provide 30 days’ notice. Should the company dismiss the employee, it is required to give 60 days’ notice.

Any tasks completed during holidays and Eid will be classified as overtime, and employees will receive additional payment for this. This will guarantee equitable remuneration for staff working during holidays. The trial period may now extend up to 180 days. According to the updated regulations, discrimination on the grounds of race, color, gender, disability, or social status is firmly forbidden.

In the new rules, those who provide work without a license will now be fined. This will help in regulating the labour market. This will prevent the exploitation of employees. These reforms have also given migrant workers the freedom to change jobs. Visa rules have also been relaxed. Now migrant workers can leave the country without the permission of the employer. Indians work in large numbers in Saudi Arabia, so they will directly benefit from the changed rules.