= ₹23.08 
For Muslim employees working in Saudi Arabia, performing Hajj or Umrah is a deeply spiritual and personal goal. But when it comes to taking time off for these journeys, it’s important to understand what the Saudi Labor Law says about your rights.
Let’s check if Hajj and Umrah leave paid as per saudi labor law
🕋 Hajj Leave – What the Law Says
According to Article 114 of the Saudi Labor Law, employees are entitled to take Hajj leave with the following conditions:
✅ Eligibility Criteria for Hajj Leave:
- – Duration: Employees are entitled to 10 to 15 days of Hajj leave, which includes the 4-day Eid-ul-Adha holiday.
- – Frequency: Hajj leave can only be availed once during the entire period of employment with a company.
- – Minimum Service Requirement: The employee must have completed at least 2 years of continuous service with the current employer.
- – Employer’s Discretion: The employer has the right to limit the number of employees granted Hajj leave in a given year to ensure smooth business operations.
✅ Is Hajj Leave Paid?
Yes, Hajj leave is paid leave as per the law, provided the above conditions are met.
🕋 Umrah Leave – Is It Paid?
Unlike Hajj, the Saudi Labor Law does not explicitly grant any specific leave for Umrah.
❌ No Legal Provision:
- There is no clause in the labor law that mandates an employer to grant special leave for performing Umrah.
📝 What Are the Options?
- Annual Leave: Employees can request to use part of their annual vacation for Umrah.
- Unpaid Leave: Alternatively, they may request unpaid leave—subject to employer approval.
- Company Policies Vary: Some companies may offer additional religious leave, especially during Ramadan, but this is entirely at the employer’s discretion.
🔄 Quick Comparison: Hajj vs Umrah Leave
| Feature | Hajj Leave | Umrah Leave |
|---|---|---|
| Legally Mandated | ✅ Yes (once per employment) | ❌ No |
| Paid | ✅ Yes | ❌ Only if covered by annual leave |
| Minimum Service | ✅ 2 years with the employer | ❌ Not applicable |
| Employer’s Discretion | ✅ Yes, can limit the number per year | ✅ Full discretion |
📌 Final Thoughts
- If you plan to perform Hajj, check your employment duration and apply well in advance, especially if many employees may request it in the same year.
- For Umrah, speak to your HR or manager to explore options for using your annual leave or unpaid time off.
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Source:
Saudi Labor Law
