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Published on 11 Mar 2026 by Cami M.
Saudi Arabia has established labor regulations to protect both employers and helpers. When hiring domestic workers, employers must follow the rules set under Saudi labor regulations and domestic worker laws. Understanding these responsibilities helps create a fair, safe, and respectful working environment while avoiding legal issues.
This guide explains the key responsibilities employers must follow when hiring domestic helpers in Saudi Arabia.
1. Providing a written employment contract
Employers must ensure that a clear employment contract is provided to the helper. The contract should outline important details such as:
- Job responsibilities
- Salary and payment schedule
- Working hours
- Weekly rest days
- Leave entitlements
- Duration of employment
Both the employer and the worker should understand and agree to the contract terms before work begins.
2. Paying wages on time
Timely salary payment is a fundamental obligation. Employers must:
- Pay the worker’s salary monthly or according to the agreed schedule
- Provide the full amount stated in the contract
- Avoid unauthorised deductions from wages
Keeping salary records helps maintain transparency and prevents disputes.
3. Providing proper accommodation and food
Domestic helpers must be provided with safe and suitable accommodation. Employers should ensure:
- A clean and private sleeping area
- Access to basic household facilities
- Adequate daily meals
A comfortable living environment supports the worker’s wellbeing and productivity.
4. Respecting working hours and rest periods
Employers must respect limits on working hours and provide appropriate rest periods. Domestic workers are entitled to:
- Daily rest periods during the day
- At least one weekly rest day
- Reasonable working hours in line with the contract and regulations
Overworking employees without rest may violate labor regulations.
5. Providing medical care
Employers are responsible for ensuring helpers receive necessary medical care when they become ill or injured during employment. This may include:
- Access to medical treatment
- Support during recovery if the illness occurs during work
Maintaining the helper’s health is part of responsible employment.
6. Respecting helper rights and dignity
Employers must treat workers with respect and fairness at all times. This includes:
- Protecting workers from physical or verbal abuse
- Respecting cultural and religious practices
- Allowing workers to communicate with their families
A respectful workplace improves trust and cooperation.
7. Providing leave and end-of-service benefits
Domestic helpers may be entitled to leave depending on the contract and applicable regulations. Employers should also be aware of end-of-service benefits, which may include compensation upon completion of the employment period.
Understanding these obligations helps prevent disputes at the end of employment.
8. Covering recruitment and travel costs
In most cases, employers are responsible for:
- Recruitment agency fees
- Visa processing
- Initial travel costs for the worker to arrive in Saudi Arabia
These costs should not be deducted from the helper’s salary unless permitted by law.
9. Following legal termination procedures
If employment must end, employers should follow the proper legal process. This may include:
- Providing notice when required
- Paying outstanding wages
- Ensuring the worker receives their legal entitlements
Failure to follow proper procedures can lead to penalties or legal claims.
Employing domestic workers comes with important responsibilities. By following Saudi labor regulations, employers can ensure that workers are treated fairly while maintaining a lawful and respectful working relationship.
Responsible employment not only protects workers but also benefits employers by promoting trust, stability, and a positive household environment.
You might be interested in:
Iqama Process for Domestic Workers in Saudi Arabia: Timeline, Requirements & Costs
Are Medical Tests Required for Domestic Workers in Saudi Arabia?
What to Include in a Domestic Worker Contract in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has established labor regulations to protect both employers and helpers. When hiring domestic workers, employers must follow the rules set under Saudi labor regulations and domestic worker laws. Understanding these responsibilities helps create a fair, safe, and respectful working environment while avoiding legal issues.
This guide explains the key responsibilities employers must follow when hiring domestic helpers in Saudi Arabia.
1. Providing a written employment contract
Employers must ensure that a clear employment contract is provided to the helper. The contract should outline important details such as:
- Job responsibilities
- Salary and payment schedule
- Working hours
- Weekly rest days
- Leave entitlements
- Duration of employment
Both the employer and the worker should understand and agree to the contract terms before work begins.
2. Paying wages on time
Timely salary payment is a fundamental obligation. Employers must:
- Pay the worker’s salary monthly or according to the agreed schedule
- Provide the full amount stated in the contract
- Avoid unauthorised deductions from wages
Keeping salary records helps maintain transparency and prevents disputes.
3. Providing proper accommodation and food
Domestic helpers must be provided with safe and suitable accommodation. Employers should ensure:
- A clean and private sleeping area
- Access to basic household facilities
- Adequate daily meals
A comfortable living environment supports the worker’s wellbeing and productivity.
4. Respecting working hours and rest periods
Employers must respect limits on working hours and provide appropriate rest periods. Domestic workers are entitled to:
- Daily rest periods during the day
- At least one weekly rest day
- Reasonable working hours in line with the contract and regulations
Overworking employees without rest may violate labor regulations.
5. Providing medical care
Employers are responsible for ensuring helpers receive necessary medical care when they become ill or injured during employment. This may include:
- Access to medical treatment
- Support during recovery if the illness occurs during work
Maintaining the helper’s health is part of responsible employment.
6. Respecting helper rights and dignity
Employers must treat workers with respect and fairness at all times. This includes:
- Protecting workers from physical or verbal abuse
- Respecting cultural and religious practices
- Allowing workers to communicate with their families
A respectful workplace improves trust and cooperation.
7. Providing leave and end-of-service benefits
Domestic helpers may be entitled to leave depending on the contract and applicable regulations. Employers should also be aware of end-of-service benefits, which may include compensation upon completion of the employment period.
Understanding these obligations helps prevent disputes at the end of employment.
8. Covering recruitment and travel costs
In most cases, employers are responsible for:
- Recruitment agency fees
- Visa processing
- Initial travel costs for the worker to arrive in Saudi Arabia
These costs should not be deducted from the helper’s salary unless permitted by law.
9. Following legal termination procedures
If employment must end, employers should follow the proper legal process. This may include:
- Providing notice when required
- Paying outstanding wages
- Ensuring the worker receives their legal entitlements
Failure to follow proper procedures can lead to penalties or legal claims.
Employing domestic workers comes with important responsibilities. By following Saudi labor regulations, employers can ensure that workers are treated fairly while maintaining a lawful and respectful working relationship.
Responsible employment not only protects workers but also benefits employers by promoting trust, stability, and a positive household environment.
You might be interested in:
Iqama Process for Domestic Workers in Saudi Arabia: Timeline, Requirements & Costs
Are Medical Tests Required for Domestic Workers in Saudi Arabia?
What to Include in a Domestic Worker Contract in Saudi Arabia