Saudi Court Reviews Harassment Case Over Lewd WhatsApp Message

Saudi Arabia: Female Employee Files Harassment Case Over Lewd WhatsApp Joke

A Saudi court is currently reviewing a harassment complaint filed by a female employee against her expatriate manager, who allegedly sent her a lewd joke via WhatsApp.

The plaintiff, a human resources specialist, accused the manager of verbal harassment and inappropriate behavior after receiving sexually suggestive messages from his private phone. According to Okaz newspaper, the employee had previously warned the manager not to contact her outside working hours or for non-work-related matters.

Despite her requests and formal complaints to the company, the harassment reportedly continued. Frustrated by the lack of action, the woman turned to the court, presenting WhatsApp messages and witness testimonies as evidence of the misconduct.

The manager, an Arab national, denied the allegations, claiming the message was sent accidentally and that he had apologized. He further attributed the accusations to a workplace dispute and requested the case be dismissed.

Investigators reviewed evidence, including WhatsApp messages containing lewd jokes, leading to formal charges against the manager for harassment and violating Saudi Arabia’s anti-cybercrime law.

The Jeddah-based court is expected to deliver its ruling soon. If found guilty, the defendant faces severe penalties, including up to five years in prison or a fine of SR300,000.

Saudi authorities have intensified measures against sexual harassment, including publicly naming offenders to deter similar crimes. Under Saudi law, harassment can result in up to two years in prison and a SR100,000 fine, with harsher penalties of up to five years and SR300,000 for repeat offenses or cases occurring in public or at workplaces.

Moreover, the law ensures that punishment is irreversible, even if the victim waives their right to pursue legal action. Offenses involving vulnerable individuals, such as children, persons with special needs, or unconscious victims, carry maximum penalties of five years in prison and a SR300,000 fine.

 

For any enquiries or information, contact info@thelawreporters.com or call us on +971 52 644 3004. Follow The Law Reporters on WhatsApp Channels