2025 Holidays - Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia Public Holiday Observance Rules

1. Entitlement to Public Holidays

- Saudi Arabia observes several public holidays annually, including religious and national holidays. Employees are entitled to fully paid time off during these holidays as per the Saudi Labor Law. The key holidays include Eid Al-Fitr, Eid Al-Adha, and Saudi National Day. Source

2. Substitution of Holidays Falling on a Weekend

- If a public holiday falls on a Friday, the holiday is typically moved to the following Saturday. Similarly, if a holiday falls on a Saturday, it is observed on the preceding Thursday, ensuring employees still receive their entitlement. Source

3. Working on Public Holidays

- Employees who are required to work during public holidays are entitled to additional compensation, typically equivalent to double their normal wage or compensatory time off. Employers must adhere to the provisions outlined in the Saudi Labor Law. Source

4. Public Holidays During Paid Leave

- Public holidays that occur during an employee’s period of paid leave are not counted against their total leave entitlement. Employees retain the right to their full leave allowance. Source

5. Additional Notes

- Public holidays in Saudi Arabia follow the Islamic calendar, which is based on lunar months, and therefore the exact dates of holidays like Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha may vary each year. Employers and employees should monitor official announcements for confirmed holiday dates. Source