
Saudi Arabia has just made it a crime to fake sick leave, punishable by up to one year in prison or a penalty of SR 100,000 (approximately £20,800).
The Ministry of Health, citing the rise of social media services offering illegitimate sick‑note guarantees, warned that only the official 'Sehhaty' platform can issue valid medical leave. Any attempts to bypass it, either by patients or healthcare professionals, will face legal consequences.