Balancing Work Accountability ...

In a step aimed at ensuring workers' rights and securing their stability during periods of detention or confinement, Article 97 of the Saudi Labor Law stipulates that employers must pay half of the salary to the worker during the period of detention or confinement until their case is resolved.

According to this article, the employer is responsible for paying a portion of the salary to the detained or confined worker, at a rate of 50%, reflecting a commitment to individual rights and ensuring continuity of income during a potentially uncertain phase of detention.

The importance of this article lies in providing protection for workers and preventing them from being left in a state of uncertainty and financial loss during their confinement. These provisions represent a legal guarantee for the continuity of salary payments and workers' rights, thereby enhancing the financial and psychological stability of these workers and their families.

It is worth noting that this commitment comes with a specific condition, where the employer is not obliged to pay any part of the salary if the period of detention or confinement exceeds one hundred and eighty days, reflecting a carefully balanced approach between workers' rights and corporate interests.

Furthermore, this article also stipulates the reimbursement of funds paid to the worker in case of acquittal or the investigation being closed without charges, ensuring that workers' rights are not harmed in case of their exoneration from the charges against them.

However, this system places a significant responsibility on the employer to deal with cases of detention or confinement responsibly and fairly, ensuring the continuity of salary payments and workers' rights by the legally permitted period of detention.

In summary, Article 97 of the Saudi Labor Law represents an important step towards protecting workers' rights and ensuring their stability during periods of detention or confinement, reflecting a legal commitment to providing a fair and stable work environment for everyone.