Saudi Arabia has implemented significant reforms to protect domestic workers, including housemaids, drivers, and cooks, under its Saudi Labor Law (2024 Revision) and Maid Contract Regulations. However, many workers remain unaware of their rights, leading to exploitation. This guide breaks down the latest legal protections, common violations, and steps to seek justice—based on official Saudi policies, embassy advisories, and real worker experiences.
Who Qualifies as a Domestic Worker in KSA?
The Saudi Ministry of Human Resources (MOHRSD) defines domestic workers as:
✔ Housemaids
✔ Drivers
✔ Cooks
✔ Gardeners
✔ Private nurses
Note: These workers are covered under different laws than corporate employees.
Key Legal Rights for Domestic Workers (2024 Updates)
1. Written Employment Contract
- Mandatory Terms:Salary (must meet Saudi minimum wage for domestic workers).Working hours (max 12 hours/day, with rest periods).Annual leave (30 days paid after one year).
- Language Requirement: Contract must be Arabic + worker’s native language.
2. Wage Protections
- Minimum Wage:SAR 1,200/month (~₱18,000) for full-time domestic workers (2024 update).SAR 600/month for part-time (if working <6 hours/day).
- Payment Rules:Salaries must be paid monthly via bank transfer (cash payments are illegal).No salary deductions unless agreed in writing (e.g., phone bills).
3. Working Hours & Rest Days
- Daily Limit: 12 hours max (including breaks).
- Weekly Rest: 1 full day off per week (usually Friday).
- Overtime: Must be paid at 150% of hourly wage if exceeding daily limits.
4. Accommodation & Food
- Housing Standards:Private room (can be shared with max 2 workers of the same gender).Access to clean water, electricity, and ventilation.
- Food Allowance: If meals aren’t provided, employer must pay SAR 300/month extra.
5. Health Insurance & Sick Leave
- Medical Coverage: Employers must provide health insurance (basic package).
- Sick Leave:30 days full pay per year.Additional 60 days at 75% pay if hospitalized.
6. Passport & Freedom of Movement
- Illegal Actions by Employers:Confiscating passports (punishable by SAR 5,000 fine).Forcing workers to stay indoors on rest days.
- Right to Travel: Workers can keep passports and exit Saudi Arabia without employer permission after contract ends.
7. Contract Termination & End-of-Service Benefits
- Resignation: Worker can resign with 30 days’ notice (no penalty).
- Unfair Dismissal: If fired without cause, worker is owed:1 month salary for each year worked.Return flight ticket to home country.
Common Violations & How to Report Them
1. Unpaid Salaries
- Action: File a complaint at the Tadawul (Labor Dispute) Office.
- Proof Needed: Bank statements/text messages showing unpaid wages.
2. Physical or Verbal Abuse
- Emergency Numbers:Police (999)Domestic Worker Helpline (19911)
- Embassy Support: Contact your home country’s embassy for legal aid.
3. Excessive Work Hours
- Solution: Keep a diary of daily tasks/timings as evidence.
4. Passport Confiscation
- Recovery Steps:Report to Tadawul Office.Embassy can issue emergency travel documents.
How to Seek Help (Step-by-Step)
1. Document Everything
- Save:Contract copies.Photos of injuries/poor living conditions.WhatsApp messages/emails from employer.
2. Contact Authorities
- MOHRSD Hotline: 19911 (24/7, multilingual).
- Tadawul Offices: Located in all major cities (e.g., Riyadh, Jeddah).
3. Embassy Assistance
- Philippines: PH Embassy Riyadh (+966 11 482 3555).
- India: Indian Embassy Jeddah (+966 12 256 5300).
4. Shelter & Repatriation
- Government Shelters:Sanad Shelter (Riyadh): Provides food, legal aid, and flights home.Awasir (Jeddah): For female workers in crisis.
Success Stories
Case 1: Filipina Maid Wins Unpaid Salary Case
- Issue: 8 months unpaid wages (SAR 9,600 owed).
- Outcome: Employer fined SAR 10,000 + full back pay.
Case 2: Kenyan Worker Escapes Abuse
- Action: Called 19911 after employer locked her in.
- Result: Employer jailed, worker repatriated safely.
Myths vs. Facts
❌ Myth: "Employers can cancel my visa anytime."
✅ Fact: Workers have 72 hours after contract ends to find a new job.
❌ Myth: "I’ll be deported if I complain."
✅ Fact: Reporting abuse does NOT affect residency status.
Pre-Departure Checklist for Workers
✔ Get contract translated before signing.
✔ Take photos of passport/visa.
✔ Save embassy contacts in your phone.
Key Takeaway: "Know your rights—silence enables exploitation." – Maria S., former domestic worker turned advocate
Sources:
- Saudi Ministry of Human Resources (MOHRSD) 2024 Guidelines
- Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) Advisory
- Indian Embassy KSA Worker Protection Guide
- Sanad Shelter Annual Report (2023)
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