Saudi Arabia has banned employers from charging any fees to their domestic workers, including the fees for recruitment, work permit, transfer of service, and change of profession.
According to an Okaz News report, employers who violate the regulations will be slapped with fines amounting to a maximum of SR20,000 (approximately BD2,000) and a ban on the recruitment of domestic workers for a period of three years.
The new rules were published by Saudi’s Human Resources and Social Development Ministry in a guide that outlines worker protections in the country.
Under the new regulations, workers must be paid in full according to the unified employment contract and are entitled to a weekly rest day, at least eight consecutive hours of daily rest, and one month of paid leave every two years.
Workers are guaranteed the right to retain personal documents, such as passports and residency permits, without employer interference.
Employers are required to provide proper housing, food or a cash allowance, and healthcare coverage, and to ensure workers can communicate with their families.
The new regulations are meant to provide protection for workers within the domestic sector, including drivers, home nurses, cooks, tailors, butlers, and house managers.
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