Public Interest Disclosure (Whistleblowing) Policy -HR006

Policy Code
HR006
Approved By
University Council
Policy Purpose

The aims of this policy are to:

  • Encourage early reporting of serious concerns in good faith.
  • Ensure reports are taken seriously and investigated promptly.
  • Protect whistleblowers from retaliation, in line with Saudi Labor Law (which prohibits unfair dismissal or disciplinary action for lawful reporting of misconduct).
  • Promote a culture of transparency, responsibility, and compliance.
Policy Scope
  •  Alfaisal University (AU) is committed to integrity, accountability, and compliance with the Laws of Saudi Arabia, including the Labor Law, the Anti-Bribery Law (1992, amended 2015), and the Anti-Cybercrime Law (2007).
  • This Policy provides a safe and structured way for staff, students, and other stakeholders to raise concerns about suspected misconduct, wrongdoing, or risks to health, safety, and reputation.
  • It applies to:
    • Employees of AU at all levels.
    • Contractors, consultants, and agency staff.
    • Former staff where the issue relates to their employment at AU.
    • Registered students and volunteers.
  • This policy is not for personal grievances (e.g., promotions, work conditions). Those should follow Staff Grievance Procedure or Student Complaints Procedure.

What is Whistleblowing?

Whistleblowing means reporting a concern that affects the public interest or the integrity of the University. This includes:

  • Criminal activity (e.g., fraud, bribery, theft).
  • Breach of Saudi laws.
  • Miscarriages of justice.
  • Risks to health, safety, or the environment.
  • Financial mismanagement or misuse of AU resources.
  • Breach of AU policies, Code of Conduct, or ethical standards.
  • Failure to comply with any legal or professional obligation or regulatory requirements.
  • Abuse of authority or harassment.
  • Unauthorized disclosure of confidential information.
  • Conduct that is likely to damage reputation.
  • Negligence.
  • Concealment of any of the above.

Raising a Whistleblowing Concern

  • Concerns should be raised promptly through one of the contacts listed in Section H.
  • Reports may be made verbally, in writing, or by email.
  • AU encourages openness. Where confidentiality is requested, AU will protect the whistleblower’s identity as far as legally possible.
  • Anonymous reports are not encouraged, however, they might be considered, but they may limit AU’s ability to investigate effectively.
  • For urgent legal or criminal matters, individuals may also report directly to Saudi authorities, including:
  • Ministry of Human Resources & Social Development (MHRSD) – hotline 19911.
  • National Anti-Corruption Commission (Nazaha) – 19991.
  • Police / Emergency services – 999.

Investigations

  • Once a concern is received, the Designated Officer will arrange a meeting to discuss details. The whistleblower may bring a representative (colleague, student, or adviser).
  • An investigator or panel may be appointed, with relevant expertise and independence.
  • The investigation will be conducted fairly, confidentially, and in line with Saudi Labor Law and AU’s internal regulations.
  • Findings may lead to corrective action, disciplinary measures, or referral to external authorities.
  • Whistleblowers will be updated on progress, unless confidentiality prevents disclosure of specific details.
  • If a complaint is proven to be malicious or raised in bad faith, disciplinary action may be taken against the individual.

Protection and Support for Whistleblowers

  • AU strictly prohibits retaliation against whistleblowers who raise concerns in good faith.
  • All employees have the right to report misconduct without unfair dismissal or penalty.
  • Retaliation (e.g., demotion, harassment, reduction of hours, threats, or dismissal) will be treated as serious misconduct and may result in disciplinary action.
  • Support (counseling, advice, HR support) will be made available to whistleblowers.

Responsibilities

  • University Council: Holds overall responsibility for this policy and ensures reports are addressed.
  • Secretary General of the University Council: Manages day-to-day implementation and ensures training and awareness.
  • Human Resources & Student Affairs: Provide confidential support, record concerns, and ensure fair handling.
  • All Staff, Students, and Stakeholders: Must report suspected wrongdoing and cooperate with investigations.

Contacts

  • Secretary General of University Council
  • Chair of University Council
  • President of the University
  • Dean of Student Affairs
  • Director of Human Resources
  • College Deans