Calling in sick to work when you're not in could result in a fine or even jail time, as officials in Saudi Arabia crack down on employees faking sick days. It comes as 50% of U.S. workers admitted to faking a sick day to attend family occasions, take a mental health day, or to avoid burnout. Data has shown that lost productivity from absences related to sickness can cost business in the neighborhood of $60,000. Now Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health has warned that feigning an illness is a criminal offense. Workers caught lying about their health could be fined SR100,000 (around $26,650) or even sentenced to one year in prison. The warning comes amid the increased presence of illegal medical leave services on social media platforms, with employees cautioned that they may face prosecution if they use them, as only the ministry is authorized to issue official sick leave reports. In addition, the ministry has issued a warning to doctors that issuing a sick leave note without the proper proof or justification may subject them to disciplinary action and legal penalties as well.
