Abstract
Transformational leadership is vital factor that can support innovation and innovation related behavior. In spite of the importance of transformational leadership, there is a lack of empirical studies linking the transformational leadership and innovative behavior. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the direct effect of transformational leadership on innovative behavior. Based on previous studies, in this study the framework has been designed and the hypotheses were tested through the descriptive methodology, which depends on a questionnaire and sample of Saudi universities' employees. The response rate percentage was 60%. The findings of the study showed that there are high levels of perceived transformational leadership. Also, the study found that idealized influence and intellectual stimulation have impact on problems sensitivity, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation and proactiveness; but the these factors have no effect on originality except intellectual stimulation. Moreover, the study showed practical implications to the decision makers and theoretical implications, beside suggestions for future research.