RIYADH – Saudi Arabia has announced that employers cannot receive work permit fees, service transfer charges and employment expenses from domestic workers across the Kingdom.
The Arab country has introduced a new framework aimed at safeguarding the rights of domestic workers and employers.
The initiative outlines clear rules for recruitment, work responsibilities and legal protections, ensuring a more transparent and regulated system for household employment.
According to the guidelines, workers must receive full awareness of job responsibilities before arrival, while employers are required to provide written contracts that guarantee wages, duties and accommodation.
Saudi authorities have emphasized strict implementation of labour laws, including fines of up to 20,000 riyals for breaching contractual terms. Employers are also prohibited from assigning domestic workers to tasks outside their agreed job roles.
Workers have been advised to protect their passports, retain copies of important papers and immediately report any unlawful treatment.
The Saudi authorities said domestic workers are entitled to monthly wages, weekly rest, medical care and timely resolution of grievances.
The domestic workers include drivers, nurses, cooks, tailors, butler, house manager, security guard, personal assistant, farmers, psychotherapist and home coffee makers.
