Notice Period Under Saudi Labor Law – A Complete Guide for Expats and Employers

Whether you are planning to resign from your job in Saudi Arabia or your employer intends to terminate your contract, understanding the notice period is essential. Saudi Labor Law provides clear regulations about notice periods for both limited and unlimited contracts.

In this guide, we will walk you through:

What the notice period is in Saudi Arabia
How it applies to limited and unlimited contracts
Employer and employee obligations
Legal consequences of early termination
FAQs related to resignations and dismissals

📌 What Is the Notice Period in Saudi Arabia?

Under the Saudi Labor Law, the notice period is the mandatory duration one must serve after submitting a resignation or termination letter. This period ensures a smooth transition and protects both the employer and the employee.

The standard notice period is 60 days for most cases, but it can vary depending on the type of employment contract.

📄 Notice Period for Limited Contracts

If you're under a fixed-term (limited) contract, the contract ends automatically when the agreed period expires. However, early termination before the contract ends requires mutual consent or legal justification.

If terminated without a valid reason, the violating party must pay compensation equal to the wages for the remaining contract period.
No specific notice period is required unless mentioned in the contract.

📄 Notice Period for Unlimited Contracts

For open-ended (unlimited) contracts, the notice period is 60 days if the employee is paid monthly. In other cases, it's 30 days.

🔹 Example:

If an employee paid monthly submits a resignation, they must serve:

60 days of work after submitting notice (unless the employer waives it).
If they leave earlier without employer approval, a penalty may apply.

🤝 Mutual Agreement on Notice Period

Employers and employees can mutually agree on a longer or shorter notice period, but it must be in writing in the employment contract. It cannot be shorter than the minimum prescribed in the law unless agreed upon and signed.

⚠️ What Happens If You Don’t Serve the Full Notice Period?

If either party fails to respect the notice period, the violating party must pay the other a compensation equal to the salary of the notice period not served.

Example:

If an employee resigns with a 60-day notice period but leaves after 30 days, they must pay:

30 days of salary to the employer (unless the employer agrees to waive it).

🧾 Legal Protections for Both Parties

The law ensures neither party is left in an unfair position:

Employers must respect the notice period when terminating staff.
Employees can challenge unfair dismissals with the Ministry of Human Resources.
Article 75–77 of the Saudi Labor Law outlines obligations and penalties for contract termination.

🔄 Can the Employer Ask the Employee Not to Work During the Notice Period?

Yes, the employer can relieve the employee from work during the notice period, but the employee is still entitled to full salary for that period.

📬 Do You Need to Submit a Written Resignation?

Yes, the resignation must be in writing and should clearly state the date it was submitted. It is strongly advised to:

Submit via email or printed letter
Keep a copy with a signed acknowledgment of receipt

📚 FAQs – Common Questions About Notice Period in KSA

1. Can I resign without serving notice?

Only if your employer agrees. Otherwise, you may be required to pay compensation.

2. Can I be terminated without a notice?

Yes, under Article 80, in cases of serious misconduct or breach of contract. Learn more:
👉 Article 80 – Termination Without Benefits in Saudi Arabia

3. Do I get paid during the notice period?

Yes. You are entitled to your full salary and benefits during the notice period.

4. Can I use annual leave during the notice period?

Yes, but only with employer approval. It’s usually better to finish the notice period without leave unless agreed.

📝 Best Practices When Resigning or Terminating Employment

Read your contract carefully before resigning or terminating.
Always communicate your decision in writing.
Respect the notice period to avoid legal or financial penalties.
Obtain a final clearance and end-of-service benefits before leaving.

💼 Conclusion: Respecting Notice Period Is Crucial

Whether you are an employer or employee in Saudi Arabia, it is essential to respect the notice period regulations outlined in the Saudi Labor Law. It maintains professionalism, ensures fairness, and avoids unnecessary penalties.

If you're unsure about your legal rights, consider contacting the Ministry of Human Resources & Social Development (MHRSD) or a qualified labor law consultant.

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