KSA: Labour reform firmly on the Government’s agenda

Analysis

Alongside its introduction of the Nitaqat system in August 2011 (designed to promote the employment of KSA nationals in the private sector), the Government has announced a series of measures to rationalise the labour market and close the gap between employment in the private and public sectors.

The latest measures, discussed and approved by the Shoura Consultative Council, include:

Working hours

• Adoption of a 5 day, 40 hour working week (hours in excess being classified as overtime).

• The grant to all employees of a 2 day weekend.

• A rest break of 30 minutes following 5 hours of continuous work.

Unauthorised absence