How to Resolve Your Labor Dispute in Saudi Arabia? Steps to File a Complaint and Settlement
Sometimes you may face disputes between the employee and the employer in the private sector — delayed salaries, termination without cause, unpaid end-of-service benefits. And the question is: What’s the solution? In this article, we explain the official method for resolving labor disputes in Saudi Arabia.
First: Attempting an Amicable Settlement
The first step if a problem arises between you and your employer is to go to the Labor Office affiliated with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. There, you file a complaint, and a specialist employee attempts to mediate between you and your employer. This stage is free and does not require a lawyer. If the settlement succeeds, the agreement is documented and binding on both parties.
Amicable settlement is often faster and cheaper than any legal action. Many disputes are resolved at this stage within weeks.
Second: The Primary Committee for Resolving Labor Disputes
If the amicable settlement fails, the case moves to the Primary Committee for Resolving Labor Disputes (or the Labor Court after judicial development). Here, the committee officially reviews the case. You submit your evidence — employment contract, salary statements, correspondence, anything that supports your claim.
The review period varies depending on the complexity of the case, but the system encourages quick resolution of labor cases.
Third: Appeal
If you are not satisfied with the decision of the Primary Committee, you have the right to appeal to the Appellate Authority (or the Labor Court of Appeal). The appeal must be filed within 30 days from the date the decision is issued. The Appellate Authority reviews the decision and may either confirm it or amend it.
After this decision, the ruling is usually final — except in very limited cases such as appealing to the Supreme Court.
Major Developments in the Labor Dispute Resolution System
- Specialized Labor Courts: Since 2018, specialized labor courts have been established within the Ministry of Justice, replacing the old administrative committees. This has improved work efficiency and accelerated case resolution.
- Electronic Filing: You can now file your complaint electronically via the “Tasadi” platform or through the Ministry of Justice portal, without having to visit the Labor Office.
- Remote Litigation: Many labor court sessions are now conducted via technology, especially for simple cases.
- Digital Labor Office: The Ministry of Human Resources has developed its electronic services for filing and tracking complaints.
Where Can You File Your Complaint?
- Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development: Via its website or branches of labor offices in all regions.
- Tasadi Platform: The electronic conciliation platform affiliated with the Ministry of Justice.
- Najiz: The Ministry of Justice portal for judicial services.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to review a labor complaint?
The time varies depending on the case. Amicable settlement may take from one week to one month. If it reaches the court, it may take from one month to three months or more for complex cases.
Do I need a lawyer to file a labor complaint?
No, you do not need a lawyer at the amicable settlement stage. However, at the litigation stage, it is preferable to have a labor lawyer with you.
Does the law apply to domestic workers?
The Saudi Labor Law excludes domestic workers and those similar from some provisions. They have a special regulation (Domestic Workers Regulation).
What rights can I claim?
You can claim unpaid salaries, end-of-service benefits, leave allowance, compensation for arbitrary dismissal, notice pay, and any other rights stipulated in the employment contract or the Saudi Labor Law.
Can a case be decided without attending sessions?
In simple cases with limited amounts, some cases are reviewed in writing without attending sessions, especially with the development of electronic litigation.
Does a labor dispute affect my residency?
Legal follow-up.
