Amazing News: Saudi Arabia Declares Sept 23 Holiday for Private Sector!
Riyadh, September 10, 2026: The Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has announced that Wednesday, September 23, 2026, corresponding to 12 Rabi Al Thani 1448 AH, will be an official public holiday for employees in the private and non-profit sectors to mark the 96th Saudi National Day. This holiday applies to all staff, including expatriates and Indian nationals, in accordance with the Executive Regulations of Article 24 of the Labour Law.
- Official public holiday on Wednesday, September 23, 2026.
- Applies to private and non-profit sectors, including expats and Indian nationals.
- Marks the 96th Saudi National Day.
Rules for Working on the Holiday
Saudi National Day, which commemorates the unification of the country by King Abdulaziz in 1932, is a mandatory public holiday. While many establishments such as retail, hospitality, construction, logistics, healthcare, restaurants, delivery, maintenance, and security services may remain operational, employers are required to adhere to specific labor regulations. Under Article 107 of the Saudi Labour Law, any work performed during an official holiday is classified as overtime. Employees who work on this day are entitled to additional compensation equivalent to their hourly wage plus 50 percent of their basic wage, or they may receive a paid compensatory leave if agreed upon.
Details on Leave and Working Days
As the holiday falls on a Wednesday in 2026, it does not automatically trigger a long weekend. The Ministry has clarified that additional leave is only granted if the public holiday overlaps with a weekly rest day or falls within an employee's approved annual leave, in which case the annual leave is extended. Employees are advised to verify any claims regarding extra time off with their company HR department.
How to Handle Payroll and Complaints
Staff members in essential services are encouraged to maintain records of their duty rosters, biometric attendance, and all official communications from their employers to ensure accurate payroll processing. If overtime pay or compensatory leave is not correctly reflected, employees should first seek written clarification from their HR or payroll departments. If an internal resolution cannot be reached, grievances may be filed through the official labor-service and complaint channels of the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, supported by documentation such as employment contracts, Iqama details, and salary slips.