The Evolution of the Legal System in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

From MENA to the WORLD

The legal system of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has a long and complex history that can be traced back to the pre-Islamic period, when the region was governed by a system of tribal laws and customs. In the modern era, the legal system of Saudi Arabia is based on Islamic law, also known as sharia. 

The legal system has also been influenced by foreign legal systems, including those of Egypt and France. In recent years, the country has made efforts to modernize and reform its legal system, including the introduction of new laws and regulations to promote economic development and protect the rights of citizens.

The first formal legal system in Saudi Arabia was established in the 1930s, following the establishment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932. The first legal code, known as the Basic Law of Governance, was issued in 1992 and outlines the powers and responsibilities of the government, as well as the rights and duties of citizens. 

The legal system of Saudi Arabia is made up of a network of courts that handle a wide range of civil, criminal, and commercial cases. The highest court in the country is the Supreme Court, which is responsible for interpreting and enforcing the laws of the land. The legal system is also supported by a number of specialized legal bodies, such as the Public Prosecution and the Ministry of Justice, which are responsible for enforcing the country’s laws and ensuring that justice is served. 

A significant development in the evolution of the legal system in Saudi Arabia was the establishment of the Saudi Arabian Judicial Training Institute in 2001. The institute was created to provide training for judges and other legal professionals, with the aim of improving the quality of justice in the country. The institute has played a vital role in improving the professionalism and competency of judges and other legal professionals. 

In 2005, the country adopted a new criminal justice system that is based on international standards. This system is designed to ensure that the rights of defendants are respected and protected. The country also adopted a new labor code in 2009 that is designed to protect the rights of workers in the Kingdom.

In 2017, the country announced significant changes to its legal system, including the establishment of specialized commercial courts to handle business disputes. The changes also included the creation of a new arbitration center to help resolve disputes quickly and efficiently. 

Despite all previous challenges, the legal system in Saudi Arabia has made significant progress over the past few decades. The system is more professional, transparent, and accessible than ever before, and it is helping to drive economic growth and social progress in the country. 

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suzan.taha@lcpublishinggroup.it

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