Saudi Arabia: Recent amendments to several labor law articles will create a more attractive work environment for employees and promote sustainable development, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development said.

The changes, which were approved by the Cabinet, aim to improve job stability, protect employment rights, develop human capital, promote training opportunities and create jobs, it said.

The amendments, which align with the goals of Vision 2030, were made after studying labor laws in other countries and examining global best practices. More than 1,300 people provided feedback on the proposed amendments, while private sector companies, government bodies, labor committees and human resources specialists shared their insights through workshops and meetings.

The revisions, which comprise changes to 38 articles, the removal of seven and the addition of two new ones, will support the development of regulations to bolster the market, production and service sectors, provide a suitable legislative environment and support small and medium-sized enterprises, the ministry said.

The amendments consider the interests of all parties involved in employment contracts and expand sections on leaves and contracts, the ministry said.

New definitions for “resignation” and “assignment” were added, along with an article outlining resignation procedures and modifying grievance procedures for workers. Penalties were introduced for engaging in worker recruitment activities without a license from the ministry.

Also, employers must now provide a training and qualification policy to enhance workers’ skills. Several amendments were also made to the section on maritime work.