New Initiative Enhances Contractual Arrangements for Domestic Workers in Saudi Arabia
In a move to improve contractual arrangements for domestic workers, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development in Saudi Arabia has introduced a new initiative, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency.
Commitment to Quality and Regulation
The initiative focuses on addressing procedures for unilaterally terminating contracts when domestic workers are absent from their duties. This reflects the ministry’s commitment to reviewing labor market regulations and enhancing the quality of the domestic labor sector.
Aligned with the ministry’s broader strategy for the labor market, the initiative aims to strengthen contractual relationships between workers and employers while safeguarding the rights of all parties involved.
Boosting Appeal and Flexibility
Moreover, the initiative seeks to enhance the overall appeal and flexibility of the labor market in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Guidelines for Termination and Absence
Under the new initiative, if an employer terminates a contract due to a domestic worker’s absence within the first two years of their arrival in Saudi Arabia, the worker must depart permanently within 60 days to comply with residency and labor laws.
Similarly, if the contract is terminated due to absence after two years, the domestic worker must either leave permanently or transition to a new employer within 60 days.
Reporting and Retraction
The ministry has established specific guidelines for reporting worker absence, allowing employers to retract reports within 15 days of submission. After this period, reports become final unless the worker requests a transfer of services through the Musaned platform or chooses permanent departure.
Protection of Contractual Rights
This initiative covers termination of contracts due to absence and labor mobility services for all domestic workers, ensuring the protection of contractual rights for both workers and employers.
Implementation Timeline
The implementation of the initiative is set to begin 120 days after the decision’s issuance on March 28.