Introduction
The Saudi Labor Law aims to regulate the relationship between employees and employers, ensuring fair and safe working environments while protecting the rights of both parties.
But before understanding your rights and obligations, it’s essential to know who exactly is covered by the law.
Workers Covered Under the Saudi Labor Law
The provisions of the law apply to the following categories:
- Every employment contract in which a person agrees to work under the supervision or direction of an employer in return for a wage.
- Employees working for government entities, authorities, and public institutions, including those in agriculture or livestock sectors.
- Workers employed by charitable organizations.
- Trainees and apprentices under qualification or training contracts made with non-employees, within the limits stated in the law.
- Part-time workers, but only concerning occupational safety, health, and work injury regulations as determined by the Minister.
Key Definitions in the Saudi Labor Law
Employer
Any natural or legal person employing one or more workers for a wage, even if they are not directly supervised.
Work
Any physical or mental effort performed in human activity under a written or verbal employment contract — regardless of its nature (industrial, commercial, agricultural, technical, physical, or intellectual).
Training or Qualification Contract
An agreement through which an employer commits to training or qualifying a person for a specific profession.
Worker with Disability
A person is considered to have a disability if a medical report or identification card issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development confirms one or more permanent conditions, including:
visual, hearing, intellectual, physical, or motor impairments; learning or speech difficulties; behavioral or emotional disorders; autism; or any other condition requiring workplace accommodation.
Ability to Work
Having the necessary educational, professional, or technical qualifications to perform the duties of the job effectively.
Reasonable Accommodation
Engineering or environmental adjustments that allow a worker with a disability to perform their job, in line with the Saudi Building Code and the executive regulations of the Labor Law.
Definition of a Minor (Hadath)
A minor is any person who has completed the age of 15 but has not yet reached 18 (as per Article 2 of the Labor Law).
Employing minors is subject to strict conditions that ensure their physical and educational safety.
Summary
The Saudi Labor Law covers a wide range of workers — from public and private sector employees to part-time workers, trainees, and individuals with disabilities.
Understanding these categories helps both employees and employers clearly know their legal rights and obligations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Are part-time employees fully covered by the Labor Law?
Not entirely — only provisions related to occupational safety, health, and work injuries apply. - Does the law cover workers in farms or livestock fields?
Yes, if they work for government entities or public institutions. - Are trainees considered employees under the law?
Training contracts are partially covered under the Labor Law, focusing on the training relationship only. - Is there a special regulation for workers with disabilities?
Yes, the law protects their rights and requires employers to provide the necessary facilities to enable them to perform their duties effectively.
Sndk Is Here to Help You
Not sure if your employment situation is covered by the Saudi Labor Law?
Contact Sndk today for accurate legal guidance from experts specializing in Saudi labor regulations.