Probation period
Also known as: probation · فترة التجربة · trial period
Probation is a period at the start of a contract in which each side assesses the other. Under Article 53 of the Saudi Labour Law as amended in 2025 the contract must state it and it may last up to 180 days; regulations set which leave days don’t count, and either side may end the contract during it.
What is allowed during it
Since the 2025 amendments both sides may end the contract during probation without an end-of-service award or compensation. A worker may not be put on probation twice with the same employer unless both agree in writing and it is for another profession or job, or at least six months after the earlier employment ended (Article 54).
What it means for HR
- State it in the contract and in Qiwa, with its length in days.
- Remind the manager before it ends, early enough to confirm or end the employment.
- Work out the excluded days the Implementing Regulations set, such as sick leave, when calculating the end date.
Draft the probation clause with the Qiwa contract generator.
Official sources
This is general information to help you understand the topic. It is not legal advice. Rules and rates change: always check the official text on the relevant authority’s platform and consult a qualified adviser before acting.
