Saudi Arabia 's cabinet has approved a law to combat domestic violence at home and in the workplace . The new legislation will allow women who are victims of abuse or harassment, including sexual assault, to file complaints with police without fear of retribution from their husbands. Until now , Saudi Arabia has n't had a written law governing domestic violence . The law is expected to be implemented within 90 days , making physical abuse punishable with a maximum of one year in jail .
Saudi Arabia 's cabinet has approved a law to combat domestic violence at home and in the workplace . Human rights campaigners welcome decision , but urge caution as law is unclear and not implemented yet . Until now , Saudi Arabia has n't had a written law governing domestic violence . The law is expected to be implemented within 90 days , making physical abuse punishable with a maximum of one year in jail .