What You Should Know About Saudi Arabia’s Probationary Period

The probationary period means trial period ” for new workers. It is a period during which new employees are examined before being authorized to work on a permanent basis. The probationary term is used to evaluate an applicant’s abilities and fitness for employment. It not only guarantees that candidates are qualified, but it also protects businesses from hiring persons who are unqualified or inappropriate for the job. In most circumstances, probationary employees will be paid less than permanent employees until they are completely accepted into their jobs as part of the company’s ongoing workforce.

Saudi Arabia’s Probationary Period

The Saudi labor law regarding probationary periods is as follows:

(1) The probationary term must be specified in the employment contract and must not exceed 90 days. If all parties agree, the probation period can be extended up to 180 days, but the worker must give written agreement.

(2) A worker cannot be placed on probation by the same company more than once.

(3) The employee may be subjected to a new probationary period if the following conditions are met:

• Another profession is involved during this time.

• Or you could do something else.

• At least six months had passed since the worker’s employment with the employer was terminated.

(4) Both parties will be ineligible for compensation if the contract is canceled during the probation period, and the worker will not receive an end-of-service reward.

(5) Holidays such as Eid-al-Fitr and Eid-al-Adha, as well as sick leave, are not included in the probation period.