Saudi Arabia officially designated a 10 to 15 days leave for first-time Hajj-performing employees. The new policy is one of many aimed at making religious duties easier to fulfill while ensuring harmony in the workplace. The leave is granted only once during an employee’s service time.
While the regulation facilitates religious diversity, it also authorizes employers with the latitude to handle internal affairs. Organizations can decide on the number of staff who may go for Hajj leave in a year, to maintain stability in personnel during the busy pilgrimage months.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development stressed that workers need to apply ahead of time and that leave can be paid or unpaid, depending on company policy. The provision is an attempt to balance spiritual needs with professional obligations.
This move is expected to benefit thousands of first-time pilgrims and is in line with Vision 2030’s emphasis on promoting the Kingdom’s religious tourism sector and employee well-being. Employers are also urged to provide flexibility while sustaining productivity.
