RIYADH: In a historic move to protect millions of household employees, Saudi Arabia has banned employers from charging domestic workers any fees, including those related to recruitment, work permits, or residency documents. The decision, announced by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, is being hailed as a major step toward fairness, dignity, and better working conditions for domestic workers across the Kingdom.
According to Saudi Gazette, employers who violate the new law will face a fine of up to 20,000 Saudi Riyals (approximately $5,300) and may be banned from hiring domestic workers for up to three years. In case of repeated violations, the penalties can double or even result in a permanent hiring ban. This new rule is part of a comprehensive Guide to the Rights and Obligations of Domestic Workers, issued by the ministry to regulate household employment and strengthen protection for both workers and employers.
The guide not only prohibits employers from charging workers but also defines what roles qualify as domestic work, including drivers, home nurses, cooks, housekeepers, personal assistants, and physiotherapists, among others. It emphasizes the principle that every worker regardless of their role deserves respect, fair treatment, and a safe environment.
Under the new framework, domestic workers are now guaranteed several key rights. They must be paid regularly according to their contract, are entitled to at least one weekly rest day, and must receive a minimum of eight consecutive hours of rest each day. After two years of continuous service, they will be eligible for one month of paid leave, along with a free return flight home every two years provided by the employer. The law also grants an end-of-service bonus equivalent to one month’s salary after four years of work, and up to 30 days of paid sick leave per year upon medical confirmation.
Another major change ensures that employers can no longer confiscate passports, iqamas, or any form of identification, a practice long criticized by human rights organizations. Employers are also required to cover all costs related to legal documents and must allow workers to communicate freely with their families.
At the same time, the regulations outline certain responsibilities for domestic workers including maintaining household confidentiality, showing respect for Islamic and social values, and taking care of the employer’s property. Violations of these terms could lead to fines of up to 2,000 Riyals or a permanent ban on working in Saudi Arabia.
With over 2 million Pakistani workers and millions more from the Philippines, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and other countries employed in Saudi Arabia, this reform is expected to have a far-reaching impact. Human rights observers have described it as one of the most progressive updates to labor law in the Gulf region.
The reform also marks another step in Saudi Arabia’s ongoing Vision 2030 transformation, which seeks to modernize labour laws, promote fairness, and improve the Kingdom’s global image. For domestic workers, it sends a powerful message that their rights matter, their work is valued, and their dignity must be protected.
In the words of one rights advocate, this isn’t just a policy change it’s a statement of humanity.