Saudi Arabia has introduced new guidelines to regulate the employment of domestic workers and protect their rights. The rules were issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD).
According to Pakistan’s Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment (BEOE), the new guidelines prohibit employers from charging recruitment fees, work permit fees, profession transfer fees, or service transfer charges. Violations can lead to fines up to SAR 20,000 and a three-year recruitment ban. Repeat offenders may face permanent bans and double penalties.
The regulations ensure timely payment of salaries and grant domestic workers several benefits. These include one day off per week, at least eight hours of rest daily, one month’s salary as leave after two years, free return tickets every two years, end-of-service benefits after four years, and up to 30 days of paid sick leave annually. The law also strictly forbids confiscating passports or residency permits.
The BEOE noted that multiple professions are now officially recognized under the new guidelines, including domestic workers, drivers, nurses, cooks, tailors, gardeners, house supervisors, security guards, personal assistants, farmers, physiotherapists, and home coffee makers.
Employers are required to sign formal contracts, provide proper accommodation and meals, supply necessary legal documents, allow healthcare access, maintain communication with family, and ensure a safe working environment. Domestic workers are expected to act respectfully, protect household property, maintain confidentiality, avoid misconduct, and comply with Saudi laws, religious values, and social customs.
The new regulations aim to strengthen protections for domestic workers while holding employers accountable for fair treatment. Authorities emphasized that strict enforcement will ensure compliance and safeguard workers’ rights.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior announced measures to help visa holders who could not leave the country due to regional circumstances. Expired visit, Umrah, transit, and final exit visas as of February 25, 2026, may be extended upon request through the Absher platform until April 18, 2026, after paying applicable fees.
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