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Related tool:
Maternity Leave Calculator
— calculate your leave start and end dates by expected delivery date.
Saudi labor regulations guarantee the working mother a paid maternity leave that lets her care for herself and her newborn. This guide explains the duration, pay, timing of the leave, and the mother's rights after returning.
Duration and pay
A female employee is entitled to maternity leave of up to 12 weeks (about 84 days) at full pay under the labor law. Part of the period may be taken before the expected delivery date and the rest afterward.
Timing of the leave
- The leave can start a period before the expected delivery date.
- The remaining period is completed after delivery for the rest of mother and baby.
- It is best to coordinate with the employer to set the dates precisely.
Rights after the leave
After returning to work, the mother is entitled to a nursing period during the workday counted as working hours, plus protection from dismissal due to pregnancy or maternity leave under the regulation.
Some details vary by employer and sector (government/private); check your contract, your establishment's policy, and the labor law to confirm.
Frequently Asked Questions
A female employee is entitled to maternity leave of up to 12 weeks (about 84 days) at full pay under the labor law, which may start a period before the expected delivery date and extend afterward.
Yes, maternity leave is granted at full pay during its period under the applicable labor law. Check your employer's policy and your contract for any additional details.
Maternity leave can start a period before the expected delivery date, with the rest of the period completed after delivery, ensuring the mother's rest before and after birth.
After returning, the working mother is entitled to a nursing period or periods during the workday counted as working hours, plus protection from dismissal due to pregnancy or leave under the regulation.
Use the free maternity leave calculator: enter the expected delivery date to see the suggested leave start and end dates and the number of days.