KSA: Saudi Arabia has issued new regulations banning employers from charging domestic workers any fees, including for recruitment, profession changes, work permits, or residency documents (iqama), according to *Saudi Gazette*. The rules are part of a broader effort to safeguard domestic workers’ rights and create a fair work environment.
Under the new regulations, violators face a fine of up to SR20,000 and a three-year ban on hiring domestic help. Repeat offenders may be permanently banned, with penalties doubled.
The guidelines are outlined in the “Guide to the Rights and Obligations of Domestic Workers” released by the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources. It defines a domestic worker as anyone performing household duties directly or indirectly, including drivers, home nurses, cooks, educators, and personal assistants.
Domestic workers must also uphold proper conduct, protect employer property, respect household privacy, and adhere to Islamic and societal values. Violations can result in fines up to SR2,000, permanent bans, and deportation costs.
Workers are entitled to weekly rest days, eight continuous hours of daily rest, one month’s leave after two years, paid sick leave (up to 30 days per year), and a ticket home every two years. Employers must also pay salaries on time and cannot withhold workers’ identification documents.
Over 2.05 million Pakistani workers are currently registered for employment in Saudi Arabia, including many in domestic roles. The new law aims to strengthen protections in a sector long criticized by rights groups for exploitative practices.
