Two domestic workers from the Philippines and Ethiopia collaborating in a bright kitchen, showing teamwork, care, and dedication to their work.

The Complete Expatriate’s Guide to Domestic Workers in Saudi Arabia

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Two domestic workers from the Philippines and Ethiopia collaborating in a bright kitchen, showing teamwork, care, and dedication to their work.

Domestic workers support over 4 million households across Saudi Arabia today. The General Authority for Statistics reports that registered workers hit 4,033,766 by the end of 2024—a clear jump from 3,826,513 the previous year.

Domestic workers make up nearly 23 percent of all jobs in the Kingdom. If you’re moving to Saudi Arabia or already live here, you need to understand the legal framework around hiring household staff.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know. You will learn about the rights and obligations under Saudi law, salary expectations, working hours, visa procedures, and the latest regulatory updates.

Table of Contents

Understanding Domestic Workers in Saudi Arabia: The Essentials

Domestic workers form a vital part of daily life across Saudi households. The Kingdom has established clear legal definitions and protections for this workforce.

Understanding these fundamentals helps expatriates navigate the hiring process with confidence.

Who Are Domestic Workers in Saudi Arabia?

Domestic workers are individuals who perform household-related tasks inside private homes for wages. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development identifies 14 recognized professions under this category.

These roles include examples such as housemaids, nannies, cooks, private drivers, gardeners, and caregivers for elderly or disabled family members. Each profession requires a specific contract outlining duties and responsibilities.

Many expatriates rely on household employees to manage their households while balancing demanding careers. The contractual relationship between employers and home workers is regulated to ensure fairness for both parties.

Household staff typically live in the employer’s home, though some arrangements allow live-out positions. The nature of the work distinguishes domestic employees from employees in commercial establishments.

The Regulations of Domestic Workers and the Like, issued in July 2013, provide the official legal framework. This regulation aligns with international standards, specifically the International Labour Organization Convention Number 189 on decent work for household employees.

Saudi regulations and legal interpretations mandate that domestic workers must meet minimum age requirements to work in Saudi Arabia. This requirement aims to protect younger individuals from potential exploitation.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development oversees all contractual relationships through the Musaned platform. Musaned serves as the official digital gateway for recruiting, contracting, and managing household workers.

All employment contracts must be registered electronically through Musaned. This digital system ensures transparency and protects the rights of household employees and employers alike.

Common Misconceptions Expatriates Should Avoid

Many expats think they can hire domestic workers informally without signing proper contracts. But this breaks Saudi law and puts both you and your worker at serious legal risk.

Some employers assume domestic help has fewer rights than other employees. In reality, domestic workers enjoy specific protections under the 2013 regulations, including defined working conditions and dispute resolution mechanisms.

Another misconception involves the sponsorship system. While expatriates can sponsor household workers, specific requirements must be met through official channels like Musaned.

Household employees are not covered by the general Labor Law that applies to private sector employees. They fall under separate regulations designed specifically for household employment.

Understanding these distinctions prevents legal complications and ensures a respectful working relationship.

Domestic Workers Rights in Saudi Arabia: What the Law Guarantees

Domestic workers in Saudi Arabia now have strong legal protections that cover their rights. These laws create a fair balance between what you need as an employer and what your worker deserves—all while ensuring dignity for everyone involved.

Expatriates who understand these rights create better working environments and avoid legal violations.

Domestic Workers Law in Saudi Arabia and Your Employer Obligations

The Regulations of Domestic Workers and the Like define clear obligations for employers. You must provide a written contract in Arabic that both parties understand before the worker arrives in the Kingdom.

Employers must supply adequate accommodation, meals, and medical care per Kingdom regulations. Saudi regulations and interpretations confirm that household employees are entitled to adequate daily rest periods, which can be continuous or divided throughout the day.

You cannot require home workers to work for anyone outside your household. The contract must specify the exact nature of duties to prevent misunderstandings.

You must pay your domestic workers on time through official channels only. The Wage Protection Service, rolled out since July 2024, requires you to pay electronically via banks or digital wallets registered on the Musaned app.

Physical or emotional abuse is completely illegal and comes with harsh consequences. If you violate these protections, you’ll face heavy fines, contract termination, and possible legal action.

End of Service Benefits for Domestic Workers: What You Must Pay

Domestic workers earn end of service benefits for domestic workers when their employment ends. The amount depends on how long they’ve worked for you and the reason the contract is ending.

If the employer terminates the contract, household employees receive half a month’s wage for each of the first five years of service. After five years, they receive one full month’s wage for each additional year.

Workers who voluntarily resign after completing their contract term may also qualify for reduced benefits. The specific calculations depend on individual contract terms and Kingdom regulations.

Notice periods must be respected by both parties. Typically, either party must provide adequate notice before terminating the contract, unless circumstances warrant immediate termination.

Household staff leaving Saudi Arabia on final exit must receive all outstanding wages and benefits before departure. Employers who delay payments face penalties through the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has official channels ready when you need to resolve disputes with your domestic workers. Both you and your worker can file complaints through the Musaned app or go directly to ministry offices.

The ministry attempts to settle disputes amicably within five working days of filing. This mediation process helps both parties reach fair agreements without lengthy legal proceedings.

If mediation doesn’t work, your case moves to specialized labor courts. These courts handle all disputes about wages, working conditions, and contract violations involving your domestic workers.

Household workers have access to helplines and support services. The ministry operates dedicated phone lines where workers can report grievances in multiple languages.

You should document everything about your domestic workers employment—contracts, payment records, and any incidents that happen. This paperwork becomes crucial if disputes come up and you need official help to sort things out.

Clear guidelines govern working hours and rest periods for domestic workers. These rules protect your domestic workers wellbeing while still giving you flexibility for your household’s needs. They’re designed to work for everyone involved.

You need to understand and follow these requirements to stay on the right side of the law. Respecting them isn’t optional—it’s part of being a legal employer in Saudi Arabia.

Standard Working Hours Under Saudi Law: What’s Required

Saudi law says your domestic workers need proper daily rest periods. Legal guidelines show they should get enough rest time each day—either all at once or split up based on your household’s needs and what you both agree on.

While the general Labor Law limits other workers to eight hours daily, household employees fall under different regulations. The nature of live-in household employment creates unique circumstances requiring flexible scheduling.

Employers and home workers should agree on daily schedules that respect adequate rest requirements. Clear communication about expectations prevents misunderstandings.

During Ramadan, many Muslim household staff appreciate reduced workloads to accommodate fasting and prayer. While not legally mandated for residential workers, this consideration shows cultural sensitivity.

Excessive working hours without adequate rest violate the spirit of Saudi regulations. Expatriates should structure schedules that allow household personnel time for personal activities, rest, and communication with family.

Domestic Workers Leave Days and Public Holidays: Your Obligations

Domestic workers are entitled to weekly rest days based on their contracts. Most agreements stipulate one full day off per week, though specific days can vary by mutual agreement.

Annual leave entitlements depend on contract length and terms. Household employees who complete two years of service typically receive one month of paid leave to visit their home countries.

Public holidays in Saudi Arabia include Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Many employers provide additional time off during these religious celebrations, though specific arrangements vary.

Home workers should be allowed to observe their own religious practices. This includes time for prayer and, where applicable, attending religious services.

Employers must not penalize household staff for requesting legally entitled leave. Denying proper rest days or annual leave violates the contractual relationship and Saudi regulations.

Managing Overtime and Flexible Arrangements: Finding the Right Balance

Overtime works differently for domestic workers than it does in regular jobs. The rules here follow a unique system that fits the nature of household employment. Since household employees often live with employers, distinguishing regular hours from overtime can be challenging.

Fair employers establish clear boundaries between working hours and personal time. Home workers should not be expected to be available 24 hours daily without appropriate compensation.

When extra work comes up beyond your agreed schedule, adjusting pay shows you’re being fair. Some employers give bonus pay for special events or particularly busy work periods.

Flexible arrangements benefit both parties. Household staff may prefer concentrated work schedules with extended rest periods, while others favor consistent daily routines.

Talking openly about what you expect and being willing to work with reasonable requests builds a strong working relationship. Most expats discover that respecting their domestic workers independence actually makes running the household easier.

Domestic Workers Visa and Recruitment Process in Saudi Arabia: Step-by-Step

Navigating the visa process requires understanding official procedures and recent regulatory changes. The Musaned platform has simplified many steps, but expatriates must still follow specific requirements.

Proper documentation and compliance prevent delays and legal complications.

How to Apply for a Domestic Workers Visa via Musaned

The Musaned platform serves as the primary gateway for domestic workers visa applications. Expatriates must first create an account and verify their eligibility to sponsor household employees.

Saudi nationals and resident expatriates meeting specific criteria can apply. Eligibility depends on salary level, family size, and existing visa allocations.

After logging into Musaned, you select the desired household worker profession from the 14 recognized categories. The platform displays available recruitment agencies and their service offerings.

You choose between hiring a worker from abroad or transferring an existing employee already in Saudi Arabia. Each option follows different procedures through the Musaned interface.

For international recruitment, you review candidate profiles provided by licensed agencies. These profiles include experience, qualifications, and salary expectations.

Once you select a candidate, you sign an electronic contract through Musaned. The contract specifies duties, salary, working conditions, and contract duration.

Payment for recruitment fees occurs through secure channels integrated into Musaned. The platform issues the visa electronically once all requirements are fulfilled and payments processed.

Domestic Workers New Rules and Recruitment Updates

Major new rules for domestic workers in Saudi Arabia rolled out in 2024 and 2025. These regulatory changes brought significant updates you need to know about. The Wage Protection Service became mandatory for all domestic workers, phased in gradually based on employer household size.

As of January 2025, employers with more than four household employees must use electronic payment systems. Those with three or more workers will be required to comply by July 2025, with full implementation by January 2026.

The six-month amnesty program launched in May 2025 allows regularization of household staff reported as absconding. This initiative helps workers transfer to new employers through proper channels.

Domestic workers gained enhanced transfer rights in recent years. They can now move to new employers without current employer permission if wages are withheld for three months or residency permits are not renewed within 30 days.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development updated regulations in 2025 to clarify contractual obligations and termination procedures. These amendments aim to reduce disputes and ensure balanced rights.

Domestic Worker New Update on Musaned and Absher Platforms

Musaned recently integrated with Absher for streamlined visa management. Expatriates can now track visa status, residency renewals, and other documentation through both platforms.

The CV Upload service launched in May 2025 allows household employees completing contracts to post their résumés directly on Musaned. This feature helps employers find qualified workers already in Saudi Arabia.

Real-time notifications alert users to application status changes, document expirations, and required actions. These updates reduce delays and improve communication between all parties.

Musaned now offers services in multiple languages beyond Arabic and English. This expansion helps home workers from diverse backgrounds access information and complete necessary procedures.

The platform simplified the alternative compensatory visa process. If household staff leave during the 90-day probation period, employers can obtain replacement visas through Musaned more efficiently.

Integration with banking systems allows direct salary transfers tracked through Musaned. This transparency protects both household employees and employers by documenting all financial transactions.

Domestic Workers Salary Per Month in Saudi Arabia: What to Expect

Stacks of Saudi Riyal banknotes with Moujah prepaid card for domestic workers salary payment Saudi Arabia

Salary for domestic workers varies based on several factors. When you understand current market rates, you can budget better and offer fair pay to your workers.

Open salary talks help you avoid confusion and build real trust with your domestic workers. Being transparent from the start sets the right tone for your working relationship.

Factors Affecting Domestic Workers Salary: What Drives the Rate

Several things affect how much you’ll pay your domestic workers in Saudi Arabia. Experience matters most—workers who’ve already worked in the Kingdom or other Gulf countries typically earn higher wages.

Nationality influences salary ranges, though this practice has faced scrutiny from international labor organizations. Workers from certain countries may negotiate different rates based on bilateral agreements between their home countries and Saudi Arabia.

The type of job you’re hiring for makes a big difference in salary. Private drivers usually earn more than housemaids, while specialized caregivers for elderly or disabled family members command the highest pay.

City location affects costs. Household employees in major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam may receive higher salaries due to increased living costs and demand.

Your household size and complexity of duties impact fair compensation. Larger families requiring more intensive work justify higher monthly wages.

Average Salary and Fair Pay Practices: Current Market Standards

The Saudi government established a minimum monthly salary of 1,500 Saudi Riyals for domestic workers. This baseline applies to all nationalities and professions within the household employment category.

Market research from employment platforms and recruitment agencies indicates that typical salaries observed in the current market range between 1,500 and 2,500 Saudi Riyals monthly. Entry-level domestic workers usually start near the minimum wage in Saudi Arabia. But experienced workers with specialized skills earn much more—sometimes at the top of market rates.

These salary ranges come from established recruitment agencies and employment platforms across Saudi Arabia. Keep in mind, your actual costs might vary depending on your specific needs and what you negotiate with your worker.

Fair pay practices go beyond minimum requirements. Many expatriates provide annual bonuses, especially during religious holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.

The Wage Protection Service ensures salaries are paid electronically through banks or prepaid debit cards. This system protects both household employees and employers by creating transparent payment records.

Employers must issue prepaid debit cards for newly arrived home workers. These cards allow workers to receive salaries directly and manage their finances independently.

Comparing Wages by Occupation: Maid, Driver, and Nanny Rates

Different domestic workers roles pay different amounts based on what they do and their skills. Data from recruitment agencies shows that housemaids handling general cleaning and cooking usually earn between 1,500 and 1,800 Saudi Riyals per month.

Market research indicates that private drivers with valid Saudi licenses and clean driving records generally earn between 1,800 and 2,200 Saudi Riyals monthly. Drivers often receive additional benefits like fuel allowances.

Recruitment platform surveys show that nannies and childcare providers command salaries ranging from 1,700 to 2,500 Saudi Riyals monthly. Those with early childhood education training or multilingual abilities earn at the higher end.

Elderly caregivers and medical assistants represent the highest-paid category. Workers with nursing backgrounds or specialized care training earn between 2,000 and 2,500 Saudi Riyals or more according to industry observations.

Professional cooks with real culinary skills earn premium pay—especially if they can prepare dishes from different international cuisines. Right now, they typically make between 1,800 and 2,300 Saudi Riyals monthly based on market rates.

These salary ranges represent typical market observations compiled from multiple recruitment agencies and employment platforms as of 2025. Your actual pay will depend on your worker’s qualifications, experience, and your specific household needs. Always check current market conditions and make sure you’re paying at least the minimum wage in Saudi Arabia—which is 1,500 Saudi Riyals.

Why Domestic Workers Are Essential for Expatriates in Saudi Arabia

Domestic workers give you essential support that makes your life in Saudi Arabia work—both professionally and personally. Once you truly appreciate what they do for you, building respectful relationships happens naturally and benefits everyone involved.

Being culturally aware makes your household run smoother and keeps your domestic workers happy. It’s a simple shift in mindset that creates real harmony at home.

How Domestic Workers Support Expat Families in KSA

Most expats coming to Saudi Arabia juggle intense work demands. Your domestic workers handle household tasks so you can focus on your career goals and business priorities.

Childcare is one of the most valuable things domestic workers offer. Nannies give your children attentive care while you’re at work, bringing you real peace of mind and stability at home.

If you have elderly family members living with you, caregivers offer essential support. These domestic workers help with daily activities, manage medications, and provide companionship for your aging relatives.

Household management becomes significantly easier with domestic help handling cleaning, cooking, and general maintenance. This support is especially valuable in large homes common among expatriates in Saudi Arabia.

Private drivers navigate local roads and traffic, valuable for expatriates unfamiliar with Kingdom geography or those without Saudi driving licenses. Drivers also assist with errands and family transportation needs.

Cultural Etiquette and Communication: Building Better Relationships

Respectful communication is the foundation of a good relationship with your domestic workers. When you learn basic phrases in their language, it shows you care and makes communication so much easier.

Cultural sensitivity really matters when you’re working with domestic workers. They come from different backgrounds with their own customs, religious practices, and ways of communicating. When you respect these differences, your household just runs better.

Clear, patient instructions help home workers understand expectations. Avoid assuming familiarity with specific household preferences or local customs they may not yet know.

Many expatriates find that regular check-ins improve household management. Brief daily conversations allow you to address concerns, provide feedback, and ensure household staff feel valued.

Religious observance deserves respect and accommodation. Allowing time for prayer and understanding dietary requirements during religious periods strengthens mutual respect.

Treat household personnel as valuable household members rather than invisible servants. Courtesy, gratitude, and recognition of good work create positive, long-term employment relationships.

Why Hiring Domestic Workers Is Common Among Expatriates

Having domestic workers is common among expats in Saudi Arabia—it’s just part of the practical reality and cultural norm here. In fact, about 23 percent of the Kingdom’s entire workforce consists of household employees.

Expatriates often lack extended family support systems they might have in home countries. Home workers fill this gap, providing assistance with childcare, household management, and daily tasks.

Professional demands on expatriates in Saudi Arabia are frequently intense. Household staff enable you to maintain work-life balance while meeting career expectations.

The cost of hiring household help remains relatively affordable compared to similar services in Western countries. This affordability makes household support accessible to middle-class expatriate families.

Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure and services evolved around the expectation of household worker availability. Large homes and lifestyle patterns in expatriate communities often necessitate additional household support.

Cultural integration becomes easier when home workers familiar with local customs help navigate daily life. They can assist with shopping at local markets, understanding cultural norms, and managing household affairs.

Staying Compliant and Building a Respectful Work Environment

Saudi family and domestic worker in respectful meeting showing trust and positive working relationship in modern home

Following Saudi regulations protects both you and your domestic workers. Staying compliant keeps everyone safe from legal trouble and creates a fair working relationship. Creating respectful environments benefits everyone involved in household employment relationships.

Proactive approaches prevent problems and ensure legal adherence.

Common Mistakes Expats Make When Hiring Domestic Workers

Many expatriates attempt to hire domestic workers through informal channels rather than Musaned. This practice is illegal and creates risks for both parties.

Some employers fail to provide written contracts or neglect to register them electronically. Without proper documentation, disputes become difficult to resolve through official channels.

Inadequate understanding of household employee rights leads to unintentional violations. Employers may unknowingly deny proper rest periods, withhold salaries, or impose unreasonable working conditions.

Confiscating passports or preventing home workers from leaving the house during off-hours violates their rights. Practices that used to be common are now completely illegal and carry serious penalties. You could face major consequences if you don’t follow the updated rules.

Not providing proper housing, meals, or medical care breaks your domestic workers contract obligations. Your household staff deserve dignified living conditions in your home—it’s not optional, it’s required.

Neglecting to stay informed about regulatory updates causes compliance problems. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development regularly publishes changes affecting household employment and employers.

How to Ensure Compliance and Safety for Domestic Workers

Use Musaned exclusively for all recruitment and visa procedures. This official platform ensures compliance with current regulations and protects against fraudulent agencies.

Register your domestic workers contract electronically and keep copies of everything. These records become incredibly valuable if disputes come up or authorities ask you to verify employment details.

Implement electronic payment systems through banks or Musaned-linked channels. The Wage Protection Service requires documented salary payments, protecting both parties.

Provide household employees with their own secure living spaces. Adequate privacy and comfortable accommodations demonstrate respect and comply with basic human dignity standards.

Make sure your domestic workers get proper medical care whenever they need it. Many employers go beyond the basics and provide health insurance for extra protection.

Stay updated on regulatory changes through the official Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development channels. Sign up for their updates and reach out to licensed agencies whenever you have questions.

Building Trust and Respect at Home: Best Practices

Trust develops through consistent, fair treatment over time. Domestic workers who feel valued and respected provide better service and remain in positions longer.

Establish clear, reasonable expectations from the beginning. Written job descriptions prevent misunderstandings about duties and responsibilities.

Encourage open communication. Create an environment where household employees feel comfortable raising concerns or requesting clarification.

Recognize good work verbally and through appropriate bonuses or benefits. Appreciation motivates continued excellent performance and loyalty.

Allow household staff reasonable autonomy during off-hours. Restricting communication with family or limiting personal time damages morale and violates their dignity.

Resolve conflicts quickly and fairly. Address issues directly rather than allowing resentment to build on either side.

Many expatriates find that treating home workers as valued household members creates the most successful relationships. This approach aligns with both Islamic principles of fairness and universal standards of human dignity.

Resources and Official Platforms for Expatriates

Saudi Arabia gives you comprehensive digital tools for managing your domestic workers. Getting familiar with these platforms makes staying compliant and solving problems so much easier.

Stick with official channels—they give you the most accurate information and services. Don’t rely on unofficial advice or what someone told someone else.

HRSD Official Website and Domestic Labor Law Portal

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development maintains an extensive online portal at hrsd.gov.sa. This website provides authoritative information about household employment regulations in both Arabic and English.

The ministry publishes the complete text of the Regulations of Domestic Workers and the Like. You can download official guides explaining rights and obligations for employers and workers.

The knowledge center section addresses frequently asked questions. Topics include contract requirements, visa procedures, dispute resolution, and recent regulatory changes.

Official announcements about new policies appear first on the HRSD website. Checking regularly helps you stay current with evolving requirements affecting household employees.

Contact information for regional ministry offices allows you to reach officials directly with specific questions. The website also provides access to online complaint systems.

Musaned Platform and Service Centers: Your Primary Gateway

Musaned at musaned.com.sa serves as the primary operational platform for all domestic workers services. Create your account early to familiarize yourself with available features.

The platform allows you to browse recruitment agencies, view candidate profiles, initiate contracts, and process payments. All visa applications for household employees now proceed exclusively through Musaned.

Physical service centers exist in major cities for expatriates requiring in-person assistance. These centers help with complex cases or technical issues with the online platform.

The Musaned mobile application, available on iOS and Android, provides convenient access to all services. You can track visa status, receive notifications, and manage contracts from your smartphone.

Customer support through Musaned assists with technical problems, procedural questions, and dispute resolution. Multiple contact channels include phone, email, and online chat.

Absher Platform for Visa Management: Integration and Benefits

Absher at absher.sa is the government’s unified digital platform for various official services. Household worker visas integrate with Absher for comprehensive tracking and management.

You can monitor residency permit status, renewal dates, and final exit procedures through Absher. The platform sends automated reminders about expiring documents.

Integration between Musaned and Absher means information updates automatically across both systems. This synchronization reduces paperwork and prevents discrepancies.

The Absher mobile application provides portable access to all services. Many expatriates find mobile management more convenient than web-based interfaces.

Absher also handles related services like dependent visas, vehicle registrations, and other government interactions. Becoming proficient with this platform benefits your overall experience in Saudi Arabia.

You might also find these useful:

Frequently Asked Questions About Household Employment

What Do You Mean by Domestic Workers?

Domestic workers are people who perform household-related tasks inside private homes, such as cleaning, cooking, child or elderly care, or driving. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development recognizes 14 specific professions under this category. These household employees enter into contractual relationships with individual employers rather than working for commercial establishments.

How Much Should a Domestic Worker Be Paid in Saudi Arabia?

Pay depends on role, city, and experience. The Saudi government established a minimum monthly salary of 1,500 Saudi Riyals for all household workers. Current market data from recruitment platforms and employment agencies shows that typical salary ranges observed fall between 1,500 and 2,500 Saudi Riyals monthly. Employers should follow Kingdom regulations and provide written contracts specifying exact compensation.

What Is the New Law for Domestic Workers in Saudi Arabia?

New payment rules have changed how you handle your domestic workers salaries and transfers. The Wage Protection Service now requires you to pay electronically—this is rolling out in phases from 2024 through 2026.

Your domestic workers also gained stronger transfer rights—they can now move to new employers without your permission in specific situations. Plus, a six-month amnesty program started in May 2025 to help workers reported as absconding get their status regularized.

How Many Hours Do Domestic Workers Work in Saudi Arabia?

Saudi regulations say your domestic workers need proper daily rest periods throughout the day. Legal sources confirm that household employees must get sufficient rest time, though specific domestic workers working hours vary based on what you agree on.

You’re responsible for making sure they get adequate rest. Most domestic workers contract also include one full day off per week—that’s typically the standard.

What Is the Process to Get a Domestic Worker Visa in Saudi Arabia?

The process begins on the Musaned platform at musaned.com.sa. After verifying eligibility, you select the desired profession and choose between recruiting from abroad or transferring an existing worker. You review candidate profiles, sign electronic contracts, and pay fees through secure channels. Musaned issues visas electronically once requirements are fulfilled.

Are Domestic Workers Entitled to Leave and Benefits?

Yes, domestic workers receive weekly rest days and annual leave based on contract terms. Household employees completing two years of service typically qualify for one month of paid leave. End-of-service benefits apply when employment ends, calculated based on service length and termination circumstances.

Why Are Domestic Workers Important for Expatriates in Saudi Arabia?

Domestic workers provide essential support enabling expatriates to balance demanding careers with household management. They assist with childcare, elderly care, household tasks, and transportation. Over 4 million household employees currently support households across Saudi Arabia, representing 23 percent of the total workforce.

Sources

https://hrsd.gov.sa, https://www.stats.gov.sa, https://musaned.com.sa, https://www.ilo.org, https://www.spa.gov.sa, https://www.migrant-rights.org, https://www.cxcglobal.com, https://saudigazette.com.sa, https://www.argaam.com, https://gulfnews.com, https://www.salaryexpert.com, https://www.arabnews.com, https://www.hrw.org

Source Disclosure

Salary ranges and market compensation data represent compiled information from multiple trusted sources. These include established recruitment platforms, licensed employment agencies, and professional salary survey organizations operating in Saudi Arabia as of 2025. We prioritized official government sources for all statistics and regulatory information in this guide. Then we added credible secondary sources—like recognized legal firms, international organizations, and established media outlets—to give you practical market context and real-world observations.