The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) in Saudi Arabia has introduced new regulations for domestic workers to ensure fair treatment, protection of rights, and safe working conditions. Employers are strictly prohibited from charging domestic workers any fees, including recruitment, work permits, transfer of service, or change of profession. Violations can result in fines up to SR20,000 and a ban on hiring domestic workers for up to three years.

Domestic Workers’ Rights

The guide published by the MHRSD guarantees several rights for domestic workers:

• No payment of fees: Workers are not charged for hiring, iqama, work permit, or job transfers.

• Wages: Salaries must be paid according to the unified employment contract.

• Rest time: At least 8 continuous hours of daily rest and one weekly rest day.

• Leave: One month of paid leave after two years of continuous work with contract renewal.

• Travel ticket: Return ticket to the home country every two years at the employer’s expense.

• End-of-service pay: One month’s salary after four years of continuous service.

• Sick leave: Up to 30 days per year with a valid medical report.

• Document rights: Workers keep their passports, iqamas, and personal documents.

Permitted Domestic Professions

The guide lists legal professions for domestic workers, including domestic worker, private driver, home nurse, cook, tailor, butler, supervisor, house manager, home guard, personal assistant, farmer, physical therapist, and home coffee maker. The Ministry may add other jobs that fit domestic work duties.

Domestic Workers’ Obligations

• Perform duties properly under the employer’s supervision.

• Take care of the employer’s property and tools.

• Avoid verbal or physical attacks on the employer or family members.

• Respect home privacy and do not disclose family secrets.

• Do not quit or work for someone else without a valid reason.

• Follow Saudi laws, Islamic principles, traditions, and public morals.

Employer Obligations

• Sign an official contract approved by the Ministry.

• Provide suitable housing, food, or a financial allowance.

• Allow the worker to contact their family freely.

• Pay for legal and residency paperwork.

• Pay the agreed salary on schedule.

• Provide health care, rest hours, and official vacations.

• Avoid assigning hazardous or degrading tasks.

Penalties for Violations

• Fine: Up to SR20,000 per violation.

• Ban: Employers may be prohibited from hiring domestic workers for up to three years.

• In repeated or severe cases, the ban may become permanent and fines may be doubled.

Why This Matters

These regulations reinforce Saudi Arabia’s commitment to protecting domestic workers, ensuring justice, safety, and human dignity. They provide clarity for both workers and employers, creating a fair and organized domestic labor sector.