Annual leave under the Saudi Labour Law: days, pay and balance
Every employee is entitled to paid annual leave. Here is how many days, how the balance builds up, and what happens to unused days when employment ends.
How many days?
- At least 21 days a year.
- 30 days once the employee has 5 continuous years with the same employer.
- Leave pay is paid in advance, before the leave starts.
How the balance builds up
The balance accrues monthly: 21 ÷ 12 = 1.75 days per month worked, or 2.5 days for employees entitled to 30 days.
Timing
The employer sets leave dates around work needs. Leave can be postponed or split with the employee’s written agreement, but it cannot be given up for cash during employment.
When employment ends
The employee is paid for unused days left in the balance, added to the final settlement.
Example: monthly wage SAR 9,000 and 12 days left. Daily wage = 9,000 ÷ 30 = SAR 300. Amount due: 12 × 300 = SAR 3,600.
Work out the balance and its value
Try the free leave balance calculator. In Syncstead balances update automatically with every leave request.
Open the calculator Request a demoFor general information, not legal advice; check the Labour Law and its regulations for special cases.