New changes to Saudi Arabia’s labour laws coming into force next year include 10 weeks fully paid maternity leave for women, beginning a maximum of four weeks before the probable date of birth, the media reported on Thursday
Riyadh: New changes to Saudi Arabia’s labour laws coming into force next year include 10 weeks fully paid maternity leave for women, beginning a maximum of four weeks before the probable date of birth, the media reported on Thursday.
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Women would also be allowed to extend their maternity leave for an extra month without pay, Arab News reported.
If a woman gives birth to a sick child or one with special needs that requires constant monitoring, then she would have the right to have an extra one month fully paid, with the possibility of a further one-month extension without pay.
The amendments include 15 days’ fully paid leave for non-Muslim women who are widowed.
The labour ministry said these amendments also take into account the needs of men. A man is given three days paternity leave.
In addition, a man who loses his wife or family member or is marrying, is entitled to five days off with pay.
Penalties for those failing to comply include a fine, closure of the establishment for up to 30 days or permanent closure. Penalties would increase for repeated offences, the ministry added.
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