Many workers in Saudi Arabia believe they have no rights during probation. This is completely false. Saudi Labor Law clearly defines employee protections even during the probation period.
Understanding your rights early can protect you from unfair termination, unpaid salary, and contract abuse.
1. Probation Period Duration in Saudi Arabia
Under Saudi Labor Law:
- Maximum probation period: 90 days
- Can be extended to 180 days only with written agreement
- Extension without written consent is illegal
Probation must be clearly stated in your contract.
2. Salary Rights During Probation
During probation:
- Full salary must be paid
- Delayed or unpaid salary is a labor violation
- Deductions without consent are not allowed
Probation does not mean reduced pay unless clearly written in the contract.
3. Termination Rights During Probation
Both employer and employee can:
- Terminate the contract during probation
- Do so without notice, unless the contract states otherwise
However:
- Termination must not be discriminatory
- Salary must be paid up to the last working day
4. End of Service Benefits During Probation
If employment ends during probation:
- End of Service Benefits usually do not apply
- But pending salary, overtime, and allowances must be paid
Final settlement delays are illegal.
5. Medical Insurance and Benefits
Employers must provide:
- Medical insurance (if stated in contract)
- Safe working environment
- Legal working hours
Probation employees are still protected under labor safety laws.
6. Absconding and False Accusations
An employer cannot:
- File absconding if you are legally working
- Threaten absconding to force resignation
- Hold your passport (this is illegal)
Always keep:
- Iqama copy
- Contract copy
- Salary slips
7. What To Do If Rights Are Violated
If your employer violates probation rights:
- Collect written proof
- Contact Saudi Ministry of Human Resources
- File a labor complaint online
- Avoid verbal arguments
Legal channels protect you better than confrontation.
Important Tips for Employees
- Never work without a written contract
- Screenshot all salary payments
- Avoid agents promising “no probation”
- Read termination clauses carefully
Final Advice
Probation is a testing period, not a free pass for exploitation. Knowing your rights gives you power, confidence, and legal protection in Saudi Arabia.
⚠️ Job Scam Safety Disclaimer (Option 2)
Always verify employers, contracts, and visa details independently. Never pay recruitment fees, never hand over your passport, and report suspicious job offers to the relevant labor authorities immediately.
