Saudi Arabia has introduced significant amendments to its Labor Law, set to take effect on February 19, 2025. These reforms aim to align the Kingdom's labor market with international standards and support the objectives of Vision 2030. Key changes include an extension of maternity leave from 10 to 12 weeks, with six weeks mandatory post-childbirth.

Fathers are now entitled to three days of paid paternity leave within seven days of their child's birth.

Bereavement leave has been expanded to grant employees three days of paid leave upon the death of a sibling.

The probationary period for new employees has been extended from 90 to 180 days, allowing both employers and employees more time to assess suitability.

Employers are now permitted to offer compensatory time off in lieu of overtime pay, contingent upon mutual agreement with the employee.

The amendments also introduce explicit anti-discrimination measures, prohibiting biases based on race, color, sex, age, disability, or marital status.

Additionally, resignation procedures have been clarified, requiring employers to respond to an employee's resignation within 30 days; failure to do so results in automatic acceptance.

These reforms are part of Saudi Arabia's broader efforts to create an attractive work environment and enhance job stability for both local and expatriate workers.