Saudi Ministry Confirms Paid Hajj Leave for Private Sector Employees
In a statement released by the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development ahead of the annual pilgrimage season, the ministry clarified that this leave can be granted once during an employee’s tenure with a company. To qualify, individuals must have completed a minimum of two consecutive years with their current employer and must not have performed Hajj previously.
The ministry reiterated that, under Saudi labor regulations, employees have the right to take paid leave to perform Hajj once during the course of their employment. However, the ministry also highlighted that employers maintain discretion over how many employees can be granted this leave each year, depending on operational requirements.
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The policy, the ministry noted, is intended to uphold employee rights as stipulated in labor contracts while allowing companies to manage their staffing needs effectively.
Hajjis a mandatory religious duty for Muslims who are physically and financially able to perform it at least once in their lifetime.
This year, the pilgrimage is expected to occur between June 4 and June 9, 2025, subject to the official sighting of the crescent moon. Pilgrims from across Saudi Arabia and around the world have already begun making their way to Mecca to participate in the annual event.
Source: Agencies
