In a significant move to strengthen workers’ rights, Saudi Arabia has announced new regulations prohibiting employers from charging domestic workers any form of fees including recruitment costs, work permit expenses, or service transfer charges according to a report by Okaz newspaper.
These changes are part of the broader Saudi Arabia labor law regulations 2026, which aim to strengthen workers’ rights across the Kingdom. By clearly defining employer responsibilities, fair treatment standards, and protections for domestic workers, the updated regulations ensure compliance with international labor practices. Employers and employees alike are now guided by a comprehensive legal framework that promotes transparency, accountability, and dignity in the workplace.
Under the new directive, employers found in violation will face fines of up to SR20,000 and a three-year ban on hiring domestic workers. Repeat offenders could be subject to even stricter penalties.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) outlined that the updated guide establishes a comprehensive framework to protect the rights of domestic workers and promote fair, transparent employment practices.
Fair Treatment and Living Standards
According to the regulations, workers must receive full payment of wages as stipulated in the unified employment contract. They are entitled to:
- One weekly rest day
- A minimum of eight consecutive hours of daily rest
- One month of paid leave every two years of service
The rules also guarantee workers the right to retain their personal documents, such as passports and residency permits, ensuring freedom of movement and protection against confiscation by employers.
Employer Responsibilities
Employers are required to provide:
- Suitable accommodation and food or an equivalent cash allowance
- Healthcare coverage in line with national standards
- The ability for workers to communicate with their families regularly
In addition, the guide lists recognized professions within the domestic sector, including drivers, home nurses, cooks, tailors, butlers, and house managers, with flexibility to expand these categories in the future.This initiative reflects Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to enhance labor rights protections and align domestic employment practices with international human rights standards, ensuring dignity, safety, and fairness for all domestic workers in the Kingdom.
