Sick Leave Pay in Saudi Arabia: What Expats Need to Know
Have you ever wondered what happens to your salary if you fall ill for an extended period while working in Saudi Arabia? For many expats, the fear of losing income during a health crisis is real. However, the Saudi Labor Law provides a robust safety net through Article 117, ensuring that employees are financially protected even when they cannot be physically present at the office.
A recent landmark case at the Jeddah Labor Court perfectly illustrates how this protection works in a digital age. A high-level professional claimed a full monthly salary, arguing that he had worked continuously despite health issues. However, the employer presented records from the Sehaty app and official company emails showing that the employee had actually been on sick leave. The court ruled in favor of the law's specific pay scale, highlighting that in the Kingdom, digital records are considered the ultimate source of truth.
This case brings to light the importance of understanding the sick leave pay structure under Article 117. In Saudi Arabia, your entitlement is calculated over a single year starting from your first day of sick leave.
The breakdown is clear and generous:
The first 30 days of sick leave are paid at 100% of your salary.
The next 60 days are paid at 75%.
The final 30 days are unpaid.
For international residents, there are three vital lessons here. First, always ensure your sick leave is documented through official channels like the Sehaty app. The integration between the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Justice means that your rights are automatically backed by verifiable data. Second, even if you are a high-ranking executive, the law applies equally to everyone, providing a predictable financial path during recovery. Finally, understand that while you are protected, the law also ensures fairness for the employer by capping paid leave after 90 days.
By knowing these rules, you can focus on what matters most: your recovery. The Saudi legal system continues to modernize, offering a transparent and fair environment for the global workforce.
This insight is based on a published judgment available through the Ministry of Justice Legal Portal in Saudi Arabia. If you ever need legal advice in Saudi Arabia, do not hesitate to contact us. We would be happy to support you and help guide you in the right direction!
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