Saudi labour law changes to strengthen maritime and agricultural workers rights

The proposed amendments to the KSA Labour Law, launched by the Kingdom’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHSRD), include new penalties targeting those providing workforce services in high-risk sectors.

The proposed amendments will be incorporated into the Labour Law and its executive regulations following a review of public feedback and suggestions. They include penalties for providing labour services without registering worker information in the MHRSD systems or approved platforms, and failing to inform and educate recruited workers about their contractual rights and obligations as stipulated in the employment agreement.

For employers in the maritime sector, the new proposals would mean restrictions on hiring those under 18 years old on Saudi ships or naval units; and penalties for ignoring contractual obligations in maritime labour agreements, delayed wages, failing to provide adequate accommodation for crew off ship when necessary, and interfering with a captain’s decision-making ability regarding safety matters.

For agricultural employers, the restrictions block them employing workers below 21 years old; denying employees daily or weekly rest periods or vacations; not offering food, housing or payment; facilitating forced labour; and preventing workers from contacting families, agencies or their embassy.

Fines have been revised and, in some cases, increased, with some violations now reaching up to hundreds of thousands of riyals for repeated or severe offenses, while licence suspension as one of the penalties is also more prevalent. The new regulations also enforce the rights of female employees: they would make not giving a female employee her 12 weeks statutory maternity leave an offence and increase the strength of sanctions which can be placed against employers who break the new rules.

Dr. Sairah Narmah-Alqasim, head of Pinsent Masons’ employment practice in KSA, said the proposed changes would reduce ambiguities in employee rights enforcement in the Kingdom.

“The proposed amendments to the Labour Law and its executive regulations represent a step forward in protecting both employers and employees in Saudi Arabia. By expanding the scope of violations, increasing penalties, and introducing clearer administrative sanctions, the updated framework promotes greater compliance and transparency across all sectors.

“These changes also reflect a growing emphasis on workplace safety, fair treatment, and the rights of vulnerable groups such as women, minors, and domestic workers. Employers should take proactive measures to review their policies and ensure alignment with the new requirements to avoid substantial penalties and administrative action.”