Domestic Violence Protections
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Saudi royal decrees, regulations, and ministerial decisions.
Saudi National Law
What is this right?
Saudi Arabia's Protection from Abuse Law criminalizes domestic violence and provides protections for victims:
- Definition: Abuse includes physical, psychological, sexual, and financial harm — as well as threats and neglect — by a family member or household member.
- Penalties: Abusers face up to 1 year in prison and fines up to SAR 50,000 for a first offence. Repeat offenders face doubled penalties.
- Protection orders: Courts can issue orders removing the abuser from the home, prohibiting contact, and requiring the abuser to attend counselling.
- Reporting: Anyone (including neighbours, teachers, and medical staff) can report suspected abuse. Mandatory reporting applies to professionals who encounter abuse cases.
- Shelters: The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development operates social protection shelters for abuse victims and their children.
When does it apply?
- You are experiencing physical, emotional, sexual, or financial abuse from a family or household member.
- You are aware that a child, elderly person, or dependent is being abused.
- You need a protection order to keep the abuser away from you.
What should you do?
- Call 1919 — the MHRSD hotline for reporting abuse. It operates 24/7.
- Go to the nearest police station to file a report if you are in immediate danger.
- Request a protection order through the court — the judge can act urgently.
- Document the abuse — save messages, take photos of injuries, and get medical reports.
- Contact the National Family Safety Programme for support services and shelter placement.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not stay silent — the law protects reporters from retaliation.
- Do not destroy evidence — keep records of abuse incidents, even if you are not ready to report yet.
- Do not confront the abuser alone if there is a risk of escalation — seek help from authorities first.
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