Saudi Imposes SR20,000 Fines, 3-Year Hiring Bans for Domestic Worker Laws Violations
The Kingdom introduces strict penalties and new protections to ensure fair treatment and safer working conditions for domestic workers.
Saudi Arabia is taking a firm stand on workers’ rights with newly introduced regulations designed to protect domestic workers from exploitation. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) has announced stricter penalties for employers who violate recruitment laws — including fines of up to SR20,000 and a three-year ban on hiring domestic workers.
فيديو ذات صلة
This browser does not support the video element.
Repeat offenders could face a permanent recruitment ban, reinforcing the Kingdom’s zero-tolerance policy against labor abuse. The new measures form part of the MHRSD’s updated Guide to the Rights and Obligations of Domestic Workers, which aims to create a more ethical, fair, and respectful work environment across Saudi households.
Under the new regulations, employers are prohibited from charging any fees to domestic workers, including those related to recruitment, work permits, iqama renewal, transfer of service, or change of profession.
Domestic workers in Saudi Arabia are now guaranteed several key rights, including:
- Full payment of wages as outlined in their official contracts
- One rest day per week and at least eight hours of daily rest
- One month of paid leave after two years of service
- A free round-trip ticket home every two years
- End-of-service benefits equivalent to one month’s salary after four years
- The right to keep their passport and iqama
- Up to 30 days of paid sick leave per year with a valid medical report
Employers, meanwhile, are required to:
- Use only official ministry-approved contracts
- Provide adequate housing and meals (or corresponding allowances)
- Ensure timely salary payments and access to healthcare
- Allow workers to communicate freely with their families
- Avoid assigning unsafe or demeaning tasks
Domestic workers are also expected to respect Saudi customs, safeguard household privacy, and maintain professionalism in their roles.
By enforcing these tougher laws, Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its labor framework and uphold international standards of fairness, dignity, and justice — ensuring that both employers and employees maintain a relationship grounded in respect and mutual understanding.