MHRSD: Court Referral for Labor Disputes Without Resolution in 21 Working Days

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) in Saudi Arabia has introduced a new regulation to ensure expeditious resolution of labor disputes. According to this regulation, labor disputes that remain unresolved after 21 working days of amicable settlement attempts will be referred to the labor courts for further proceedings.

The MHRSD has emphasized that this step aims to promote efficient dispute resolution while safeguarding the rights and interests of both employers and employees. The process starts with an amicable settlement session where the involved parties try to reach a mutually agreeable solution. If no settlement is achieved within the stipulated 21 working days, the case is promptly referred to the labor courts for adjudication.

This move is expected to bring greater transparency and fairness to the dispute resolution mechanism in the Kingdom. Additionally, the electronic submission of cases to the labor courts ensures a streamlined process and reduces the likelihood of delays or backlogs.

The MHRSD’s proactive approach in addressing labor-related concerns demonstrates its commitment to fostering a robust and equitable work environment for all stakeholders in Saudi Arabia’s labor market. By enforcing this regulation, the Ministry seeks to enhance labor relations and promote a culture of respect, trust, and collaboration between employers and employees.