The Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has released a draft amendment to the Domestic Workers Regulations through the "Survey" platform. This draft, open for public comment for 30 days, aims to regulate the contractual relationship between employers and domestic workers, ensuring the rights of both parties and improving the work environment to meet international best practices.
General context and historical background of labor sector regulation
This significant step comes as part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's ongoing efforts to develop its labor market and improve the legislative environment for expatriate workers, closely aligned with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which emphasizes protecting rights and providing an attractive work environment. Historically, the Kingdom has witnessed several fundamental labor reforms, most notably the "Improving Contractual Relations" initiative, launched previously and encompassing broad sectors. Today, this systematic development extends to the domestic worker sector, which represents a significant segment of the Saudi workforce. The Ministry based these amendments on Article 7 of the Labor Law and conducted thorough benchmarking with the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and the European Union to ensure the introduction of a leading and progressive legislative model.
Setting working hours and protecting personal documents
The draft of the new regulations included crucial measures to regulate the work environment, most notably a ban on employing domestic workers under the age of 21. The regulations also categorically prohibited employers from retaining workers' passports, identification documents, or personal belongings, thus enhancing workers' freedom and human dignity. Regarding physical exertion, the draft stipulated that actual working hours should not exceed 10 hours per day, obligating employers to pay overtime for any hours worked beyond what was agreed upon in the contract between the two parties.
Weekly rest and end-of-service bonus
To ensure the physical and mental well-being of workers, the proposed regulations stipulate the right to a weekly paid rest period of at least 24 consecutive hours, in addition to a daily rest period of at least 8 consecutive hours. The regulations also stipulate that domestic workers are entitled to an end-of-service bonus equivalent to one month's salary for every four consecutive years of service. Furthermore, workers are entitled to a round-trip airfare ticket and 30 days of paid leave every two years. The document also includes the right to up to 30 days of sick leave, based on an approved medical report, divided into 15 days at full pay and 15 days at half pay, with the employer obligated to provide the necessary healthcare.
Trial period and responsibilities of recruitment agencies
Article Fourteen of the regulations stipulates a 90-day probationary period for domestic workers. During this period, the employer's right to deduct wages is limited to a maximum of one-quarter of the salary, and this is restricted to specific cases such as documented damage to property. The regulations also address the responsibilities of recruitment agencies and offices, obligating them to provide housing for the worker for two years from the date of their arrival in the Kingdom if they refuse to work or cease working. The new legislation strongly warns against any practices related to human trafficking or forced labor, stipulating financial compensation equivalent to a maximum of two months' salary in cases of wrongful termination of the contract by either party. Fines collected under the schedule of violations are to be deposited into a bank account designated to finance the accommodation and repatriation of domestic workers.
The importance of the event and its expected impact
Domestically, this comprehensive regulation will significantly reduce labor disputes and ensure the stability of Saudi families by clearly defining rights and responsibilities, thereby enhancing the quality and reliability of domestic services. Regionally, this legislation positions the Kingdom at the forefront of the region in protecting workers' rights, potentially encouraging neighboring countries to adopt similar laws. Internationally, this decision reflects Saudi Arabia's firm commitment to international human rights agreements and International Labour Organization standards, further solidifying the Kingdom's global reputation as an attractive, safe, and fair work environment for workers from around the world.
