Overview of Domestic Labour Contract Processing
In the first half of this year, Saudi Arabia processed 412,399 contracts for recruiting overseas domestic workers through a government portal. This period saw an increase in recruitment countries, now totaling 33.
New Policies and Platforms
Mandatory Insurance and Salary Transfer
Starting July 1, a new policy mandating insurance for newly recruited house workers took effect. Additionally, the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources introduced new services on Musaned, the platform for domestic labour affairs, including electronic salary transfer channels.
Reduced Recruitment Costs
The price ceiling for hiring domestic workers from countries with high recruitment rates, such as the Philippines, Uganda, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Ethiopia, has been reduced. This aims to provide multiple and suitable options for employers.
Regulatory Changes and Labour Market Adjustments
Musaned Platform and Contract Regulations
The Ministry of Human Resources emphasizes the need for contracting through Musaned, the official recruitment platform. Last October, new regulations were introduced setting the minimum age for domestic workers at 21 years and ensuring their contractual rights.
Working Hours and Rest Periods
Under the new rules, house workers’ daily working hours are set at 10 hours, with entitlement to weekly paid 24-hour rest periods. Any dues owed to the worker or their heirs are considered first-degree debts.
Related Links
Saudi Arabia Enforces Mandatory Health Insurance For Domestic Workers
