Introduction: Calculate Annual Leave in Saudi Arabia
Taking time off work is not just a luxury. It is your legal right in Saudi Arabia. However, many employees and HR managers still find vacation days confusing. This guide will clarify everything you need to know about annual leave in the Kingdom.
Understand your rights is important. Knows how many vacation days you have and how to use them can lead to a healthier work-life balance. Lets break it down so you can make the most of your time off.
What is Annual Leave in Saudi Arabia
Annual leave means paid time off that every employee can take each year. The Saudi Labor Law protects this right for all workers. Both Saudi citizens and expats with proper work contracts.
Quick Facts:
- Minimum 21 days per year for all employees
- 30 days per year after working 5 years
- Must be paid at full salary
- Cannot be taken away by employers
Who Can Take Annual Leave
You can take full vacation leave if you:
- Have a real work contract (permanent or temporary)
- Worked for 12 months without stopping
- Not in your trial period when asking for leave
Important: Even if you haven’t worked a full year yet, you still earn some vacation days based on months worked.
How Many Annual Days Do You Get
The law is very clear about minimum vacation days:
| Years Worked | Vacation Days Per Year |
|---|---|
| 1 year or more | At least 21 days |
| 5+ years | At least 30 days |
Remember: Your company might give you more days than this, but never less.
Simple Way to Calculate Your Annual Leave Days
Method 1: Full Year Calculation
If you worked the whole year:
- Standard: 21 days
- Long-term (5+ years): 30 days
Method 2: Part Year Calculation
If you did not work the full year. Use this easy formula:
For 1-4 years of service:
- 21 days ÷ 12 months = 1.75 days per month
- Your vacation days = 1.75 × months worked
For 5+ years of service:
- 30 days ÷ 12 months = 2.5 days per month
- Your vacation days = 2.5 × months worked
Real Example
Ahmed started work on March 1, 2024. By December 2024, he worked 10 months.
Calculation:
- 1.75 × 10 months = 17.5 days
- Result: Ahmed earned 18 vacation days (always round up)
How Much Money Do You Get During Vacation
When you take vacation. You get paid your full salary. Not just basic salary.
What is Included in Vacation Pay:
- Basic salary
- Housing allowance
- Transportation allowance
- Any fixed monthly payments
Easy Formula:
Daily Rate = Monthly Salary ÷ 30 Vacation Pay = Daily Rate × Number of Days
Real Example:
- Monthly salary: SAR 5,000
- Daily rate: SAR 5,000 ÷ 30 = SAR 166
- 21 days vacation: SAR 166 × 21 = SAR 3,486
Important Rule: Your employer must pay you BEFORE you start your vacation not after.
Public Holidays vs Vacation Days
Good News: Public holidays do not use up your Annual vacation days.
Saudi Public Holidays (Separate from Vacation):
- Eid Al-Fitr
- Eid Al-Adha
- Saudi National Day (September 23)
- Founding Day (February 22)
If a public holiday happens during your vacation. You do not lose a vacation day.
Other Types of Leave in Saudi Arabia
Besides annual vacation, you also get these special leaves:
| Leave Type | How Long | Paid? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sick Leave | Up to 30 days | Yes | Need medical certificate |
| Maternity Leave | 10 weeks | Yes | Can start 4 weeks before birth |
| Paternity Leave | 3 days | Yes | For new fathers |
| Hajj Leave | 10-15 days | Yes | Once in your career, after 2 years |
| Marriage Leave | 3-5 days | Usually | Depends on company |
Important: These special leaves do not reduce your annual vacation days.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
For Employees:
- Don’t wait too long to use your vacation days
- Ask for vacation pay in advance
- Keep records of days used
For HR/Employers:
- Never count public holidays as vacation days
- Pay vacation salary before leave starts
- Include all allowances in vacation pay calculation
- Update leave records regularly
FAQs About Saudi Arabia Annual Leave
Can I save vacation days for next year
Yes, but only if your employer agrees. It is better to use them each year.
What happens to unused vacation when I quit
You must be paid for unused vacation days when you leave the job.
Can my employer refuse my vacation request
Employers can choose when you take vacation based on work needs, but they cannot refuse it completely.
Do I need to give notice before taking vacation
Yes, most companies require advance notice. Check your contract for specific rules.
Tips for Using Your Vacation Rights
- Plan Early: Request vacation days in advance
- Know Your Balance: Keep track of days earned and used
- Understand Payment: Make sure you get paid correctly
- Keep Records: Save all vacation-related documents
- Know the Law: Your employer must follow these rules
Final Thoughts
Understanding your annual vacation rights helps you get the rest you deserve and the pay you’ve earned. Whether you are an employee planning time off or an HR manager handling leave requests, following these rules protects everyone.
Remember: Vacation leave is not a favor from your employer. It’s your legal right under Saudi Labor Law.
Stay updated
Follow us for latest Guides:
✅ WhatsApp Channel
☑️ Telegram Channel
Related Articles:
- SNB IBAN Converter: A Complete Guide
- How to Download Employment Certificate
- Saudi Water Bill: Best Method to Check & Calculate
