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Published on 25 Mar 2026 by Wano J.
Hiring a maid in Saudi Arabia comes with a range of costs, and one of the most common questions is whether employers need to pay a maid levy each month. The answer isn’t always straightforward, especially with evolving regulations.
Here’s everything you need to know.
Is there a monthly maid levy in Saudi Arabia?
In most cases, no, domestic helpers are exempt from the standard monthly levy.
While many foreign workers in Saudi Arabia are subject to a monthly expat levy, domestic helpers are generally not required to have a monthly maid levy paid on their behalf.
Key takeaway: If you hire a maid in Saudi Arabia, you typically won’t pay a recurring monthly government levy like businesses do for other workers.
What costs should you expect?
Even without a monthly maid levy, there are still essential expenses to consider:
Iqama (Residency permit)
- Approx. SAR 600 per year
- Required for all domestic workers
Salary & living costs
- Monthly salary (varies by nationality and experience)
- Accommodation, food, and medical care (provided by employer)
Recruitment Fees
- One-time cost if hiring through an agency
3. Hiring a maid without an agency
If you’re considering hiring a maid without agency support, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- You may save on recruitment fees, but
- You’ll be responsible for:
- Processing visas and documentation
- Ensuring legal compliance
- Managing contracts and onboarding
While hiring a maid without agency can reduce upfront costs, it requires more time, effort, and understanding of Saudi labour regulations.
When do additional fees apply?
Although there’s no standard monthly maid levy, extra charges can apply in certain cases:
Exceeding domestic helper limits
- Saudi families: more than 4 workers
- Expat families: more than 2 workers
If exceeded:
- A fee of around SAR 9,600 per year (≈ SAR 800/month equivalent) applies per extra worker
This is the closest thing to a “maid levy,” but it only applies if you go beyond the allowed number of domestic workers.
Are helpers required to pay any fees?
No, employers must cover all official costs.
Recent regulations ensure that:
- Domestic helpers are not charged recruitment or permit fees
- All expenses (iqama, visa, etc.) are the employer’s responsibility
Whether you choose to hire through an agency or go with a maid without agency, understanding these costs will help you make a more informed and compliant decision.
You must be interested in:
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Domestic Helper in Saudi Arabia?
Can You Transfer Sponsorship of a Domestic Worker in Saudi Arabia?
Employer Responsibilities Under Saudi Labor Law
Iqama Process for Domestic Workers in Saudi Arabia: Timeline, Requirements & Costs
Are Medical Tests Required for Domestic Workers in Saudi Arabia?
Hiring a maid in Saudi Arabia comes with a range of costs, and one of the most common questions is whether employers need to pay a maid levy each month. The answer isn’t always straightforward, especially with evolving regulations.
Here’s everything you need to know.
Is there a monthly maid levy in Saudi Arabia?
In most cases, no, domestic helpers are exempt from the standard monthly levy.
While many foreign workers in Saudi Arabia are subject to a monthly expat levy, domestic helpers are generally not required to have a monthly maid levy paid on their behalf.
Key takeaway: If you hire a maid in Saudi Arabia, you typically won’t pay a recurring monthly government levy like businesses do for other workers.
What costs should you expect?
Even without a monthly maid levy, there are still essential expenses to consider:
Iqama (Residency permit)
- Approx. SAR 600 per year
- Required for all domestic workers
Salary & living costs
- Monthly salary (varies by nationality and experience)
- Accommodation, food, and medical care (provided by employer)
Recruitment Fees
- One-time cost if hiring through an agency
3. Hiring a maid without an agency
If you’re considering hiring a maid without agency support, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- You may save on recruitment fees, but
- You’ll be responsible for:
- Processing visas and documentation
- Ensuring legal compliance
- Managing contracts and onboarding
While hiring a maid without agency can reduce upfront costs, it requires more time, effort, and understanding of Saudi labour regulations.
When do additional fees apply?
Although there’s no standard monthly maid levy, extra charges can apply in certain cases:
Exceeding domestic helper limits
- Saudi families: more than 4 workers
- Expat families: more than 2 workers
If exceeded:
- A fee of around SAR 9,600 per year (≈ SAR 800/month equivalent) applies per extra worker
This is the closest thing to a “maid levy,” but it only applies if you go beyond the allowed number of domestic workers.
Are helpers required to pay any fees?
No, employers must cover all official costs.
Recent regulations ensure that:
- Domestic helpers are not charged recruitment or permit fees
- All expenses (iqama, visa, etc.) are the employer’s responsibility
Whether you choose to hire through an agency or go with a maid without agency, understanding these costs will help you make a more informed and compliant decision.
You must be interested in:
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Domestic Helper in Saudi Arabia?
Can You Transfer Sponsorship of a Domestic Worker in Saudi Arabia?
Employer Responsibilities Under Saudi Labor Law
Iqama Process for Domestic Workers in Saudi Arabia: Timeline, Requirements & Costs
Are Medical Tests Required for Domestic Workers in Saudi Arabia?