Saudi Labor Law gives workers about a dozen distinct leave types. Knowing which is paid, which counts against the annual balance, and what documentation is required will save HR many disputes.
The full leave table
| Type | Duration | Pay | Article |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual leave | 21 days (≥5 years: 30 days) | Full | Art. 109 |
| Sick leave | 30 days full + 60 days at 75% + 30 days unpaid | Tiered | Art. 117 |
| Maternity | 10 weeks (4 before, 6 after birth) | Full or half (depends on service) | Art. 151 |
| Paternity | 3 days | Full | Art. 113 |
| Hajj | 10–15 days, once every 5 years | Full | Art. 114 |
| Marriage | 5 days | Full | Art. 113 |
| Bereavement (immediate family) | 5 days | Full | Art. 113 |
| Iddah (widow) | 4 months and 10 days | Full | Art. 160 |
| Exam leave | Days of exam | Full or unpaid (per agreement) | Art. 115 |
| Unpaid leave | By agreement | None | Art. 116 |
Sick leave: the three tiers (Article 117)
Within any single "sick year" (the rolling 12 months from the first sick day):
- Days 1–30: 100% paid.
- Days 31–90: 75% paid.
- Days 91–120: Unpaid but the worker remains insured and cannot be terminated.
- Beyond 120 days: The employer may terminate the contract.
Annual leave: the carry-forward rule
If the worker did not use all their annual leave by year-end, it carries over — but the employer may require it to be taken within the next 12 months. Cashing it out is only allowed at end of service (Article 111).
Maternity nuances
- The 10 weeks are paid at full wage if the worker has 3+ years of service.
- 50% wage if she has 1–3 years.
- An unpaid extension of up to 1 month is available.
- Termination during pregnancy or maternity is prohibited.