An economist specializing in working women’s issues recommended an increase in the maternity leave from 10 weeks to 12 weeks.

This came after a study that was referred to the Shoura Council and the Ministry of Labor revealed that the Council of Ministers approved modifications in the labor laws that allows women 10 weeks of maternity leave. She can increase the period by 30 days, but without pay.

Basma Omair, executive director of the Khadija Bint Khuwaylid Center for Businesswomen at the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI), appreciated efforts by the Ministry of Labor to enhance women’s contributions to national development, but highlighted the need for a number of modifications because the Kingdom has the least time given for maternity leave. The International Labor Organization gives 12 weeks for maternity leave, and recommends an extension to 14 weeks.

She said Scandinavian countries are the best in giving maternity leaves, for they give women a two-year paid leave.

Omair said the study included a number of suggestions to maintain the social fabric and help working women find stability between their family duties and their part in national development. She said maternity leave should be 12 weeks if the woman has been less than a year in her work establishment, with 50 percent of the salary, paid by the private sector. If the woman spent more than one year at the establishment she would be entitled to full salary and 14 weeks leave paid by the state.

Omair said the study includes suggestions to amend post-maternity leave, which allows the employee to choose between going back to full time work or change to part time. If she wants to continue her work she should be given full or partial salary according to her job. The employee who is on maternity leave will be included in Saudization rates.