Introduction
The Saudi Labor Law emphasizes the protection of minors from exploitation and occupational hazards that may endanger their health, safety, or education. To ensure this, the law establishes strict conditions for employing minors, defining the rights and obligations of both the employer and the young worker.
Employment Conditions for Minors
1. Prohibition of Hazardous or Harmful Work
Minors may not be employed in hazardous occupations or industries that could endanger their health, safety, or morals. The Minister determines the specific jobs and industries covered by this prohibition (Article 161).
2. Minimum Age for Employment
No person under the age of 15 may be employed or allowed to enter workplaces. The Minister may increase this age limit for certain sectors, areas, or categories of minors (Article 162).
3. Permitted Light Work
Minors aged between 13 and 15 may be employed in light work provided that:
- It is not harmful to their health or development.
- It does not interfere with school attendance or vocational training.
- It does not reduce their educational performance (Article 162).
4. Prohibition of Night Work
Minors may not be employed during nighttime hours for a period of at least 12 consecutive hours, except in cases specified by the Minister (Article 163).
5. Working Hours Limitations
Minors may not work more than 6 hours per day throughout the year, or more than 4 hours during Ramadan.
Their working hours must include one or more breaks for rest, meals, and prayer, totaling no less than 30 minutes. They may not remain at the workplace for more than 7 hours in total (Article 164).
6. Required Documents Before Employment
Before hiring a minor, the employer must obtain:
- A national ID or birth certificate.
- A medical fitness certificate.
- Written consent from a guardian.
The employer must also notify the labor office within the first week of employment and maintain a record containing the minor’s details and employment date (Article 166).
Cases Not Covered by the Law
The provisions of this chapter do not apply to work performed by children or minors for educational, technical, or vocational training purposes within schools or training institutions.
They also do not apply to minors aged 14 or above participating in:
- Educational or vocational training programs.
- Training programs conducted in establishments approved by the authorities.
- Career guidance or counseling programs (Article 167).
The Saudi Labor Law sets clear and protective regulations to ensure that minors are not subjected to exploitation or harmful working conditions. Compliance with these laws promotes both legal safety and social responsibility
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Frequently Asked Questions about Employing Minors
1. What is the minimum legal age for employment in Saudi Arabia?
Minors under 15 cannot work unless in light, regulated jobs.
2. Can minors work at night?
No. The law prohibits employing minors during nighttime hours.
3. What types of jobs are forbidden for minors?
Hazardous or physically demanding jobs such as construction or metalwork.
4. Is guardian consent required?
Yes, written approval from a legal guardian is mandatory