Resignation during the trial period: Your comprehensive guide according to the new Saudi Labor Law 2026 and Article 53 rights

Introduction: Are you considering resigning during your trial period?

Seeking professional and legal stability

Have you recently started a new job in Saudi Arabia and feel that the work environment doesn't match your aspirations? You may be wondering: "Do I have the right to quit my job immediately?", "Will I be subject to a fine?". These questions are perfectly legitimate, especially with the new amendments to the Saudi Labor Law (Royal Decree M/44), which set strict regulations for Article 53 and the 180-day period.

Article 53 of the Saudi Labor Law: New updates for 2024-2026

What is the maximum length of the trial period and how is it documented?

Under the recent amendments. It must be explicitly stated in the employment contract on the trial period. The total maximum duration is 180 days. If it is not mentioned in the notarized contract, the employee is considered fixed from the first day.

Can the trial period be extended after the recent amendments?

The new system emphasizes that The total duration of the trial may not exceed 180 days. The current trend requires the duration to be clearly defined from the beginning to ensure the stability of the labor relationship, and this time limit is not allowed to be exceeded.

[Old and New Labor System Comparison Table]

Employee and employer rights when leaving work

Does an employee have the right to resign immediately without a notice period?

Yes, the principle in the trial period is Failure to comply with the warning periodunless otherwise specified in the contract. You have the right to inform the organization of your desire to terminate and leave immediately without entitlement to compensation to the other party.

Your statutory entitlements under Article 54

Based on Article 54If the contract expires during the trial period. The worker is not entitled to severance pay. However, the employer is obligated to pay for the days actually worked and for proportional vacations.

[Self-checklist before submitting resignation]

• Review the contract date: Are you still within the 180 days?
• Check out the power platform: Does your notarized contract include a trial clause?
• Handing over the covenant: Have you prepared your laptop and business card for delivery?

How to officially terminate your employment contract via Qiwa

Terminating a contract via Powerful platform is the most important legal step to ensure your data is up to date. The employer must choose the termination reason associated with "termination of contract during the trial period" to ensure that the employment file is properly closed.

[FAQ]

Q: Do holiday vacations count towards the 180 days?

A: No, holiday vacations and sick days are not included in the calculation of the trial duration, which means that the actual end date extends as far as those vacations.

Conclusion: Key points of the resignation

• The right to terminate: Available to both parties without compensation unless otherwise specified in the contract.
• Duration: A maximum of 180 days all-inclusive.
• Documentation: A power platform is the primary reference for terminating a relationship.

Closing remarks and thanks

Thank you for reading this guide. We hope the information has helped you understand your rights under Saudi Labor Law for 2026.