In Saudi Arabia, the guidelines for vacation leave entitlements for employees in the private sector are provided by the Labor Law, promulgated by Royal Decree No. M/51, dated 23/8/1426H.

Annual Leave

The entitlement to paid annual leave for employees is based on their length of service:

• For employees with 1 to 5 years of service, they are entitled to 21 calendar days of leave.
• For employees with over 5 years of service, they are entitled to 30 calendar days of leave.

The leave entitlement accrues throughout the year of employment, as stated in the Saudi Arabian Labor Law, Article 109.

Important Considerations

The timing of vacation leave is determined by employers, considering both the employee's wishes and operational requirements. If there are any unused vacation days, compensation must be provided upon termination of employment.

Saudi Arabia observes several public holidays, primarily based on the Islamic lunar calendar. These include:

Eid al-Fitr

This holiday marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. Celebrations typically last for 3-4 days.

Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son. Celebrations can last for 4-5 days.

Saudi National Day

Saudi National Day celebrates the founding of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on September 23rd.

Important Notes

Variable Dates

The specific dates for Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha vary each year because they follow the Islamic lunar calendar.

Government and Business Closures

Most government offices and businesses close during public holidays.

In Saudi Arabia, the Labor Law outlines various types of leave available to employees in the private sector.

Annual Leave

Employees are entitled to 21 or 30 calendar days of paid leave per year, depending on length of service. This is stipulated in the Saudi Arabian Labor Law, Article 109.

Sick Leave

Employees are entitled to paid sick leave with the following provisions:

• First 30 days: Full pay
• Next 60 days: Three-quarters pay
• Beyond 90 days: No pay

A medical certification is required for absences exceeding two days. This is outlined in the Saudi Arabian Labor Law, Article 110.

Maternity Leave

Female employees are entitled to 10 weeks of paid maternity leave (4 weeks before and 6 weeks after childbirth). Leave can be extended by an additional 30 days of unpaid leave. Compensation varies based on length of service. This is detailed in the Saudi Arabian Labor Law, Article 152.

Paternity Leave

Male employees are entitled to 3 days of paid paternity leave upon the birth of a child. This is stated in the Saudi Arabian Labor Law, Article 151.

Other Types of Leave

• Bereavement Leave: Up to 3 days of paid leave may be granted for the death of an immediate family member.
• Marriage Leave: Employees are entitled to 5 days of paid leave upon marriage.
• Hajj Leave: Employees who have not previously performed Hajj may be entitled to a special one-time leave of absence for pilgrimage, subject to conditions.
• Exam Leave: Leave may be granted to employees who are taking exams related to their employment, subject to conditions.

Important Considerations

Specific eligibility criteria may vary depending on the type of leave and length of service.