A Typical Workday of a Filipino Domestic Helper in Riyadh

The life of a Filipino domestic worker—often called a “kasambahay” or “housemaid”—in Riyadh is shaped by a structured routine, cultural adaptation, and the pursuit of better opportunities for their families back home.

Domestic helpers play a vital role in Saudi households, handling a range of tasks from cleaning and cooking to childcare and elderly care. There are 3.97 million domestic workers—mostly migrants from Asian and African countries such as the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Ethiopia—with men (2.73 million) outnumbering women (1.25 million), and the majority working as cleaners, drivers, and household staff.

While the work can be physically demanding and emotionally challenging, recent improvements in Saudi labor laws and bilateral agreements have provided clearer guidelines for working hours, rest periods, and worker rights.

For many Filipinos, working in Riyadh represents a significant sacrifice and a chance to support loved ones. Understanding a typical workday helps aspiring workers and their families set realistic expectations and prepare for life abroad.

Starting the day: Early mornings and preparation

Most Filipino domestic helpers in Riyadh start their day before sunrise. The exact wake-up time depends on the household’s needs, but it commonly ranges from 5:00 to 6:00 AM.

The first moments are reserved for personal hygiene, a quick breakfast, and sometimes a few minutes to check messages from family back home.

5:00–6:00 AM: Wake up.

• • Wake up, make the bed, and perform morning prayers or meditation.
  • Quick shower and change into work attire.
  • Prepare a simple breakfast, often eaten quickly before starting household duties.

Morning responsibilities: Cleaning, laundry, and childcare

6:30–10:30 AM: Core household tasks
The morning hours are the busiest. Domestic helpers typically begin by tidying up the house, sweeping and mopping floors, dusting furniture, and cleaning bathrooms.

If children are present, the helper may assist in preparing them for school—helping with uniforms, breakfast, and sometimes walking them to the bus stop or school gate.

• General cleaning of living areas, kitchen, and bathrooms.
• Laundry: Washing, drying, ironing, and folding clothes.
• Preparing breakfast for the family
• Assisting children or elderly household members as needed.

Midday: Meal preparation and a brief break

10:30 AM–1:30 PM: Cooking and lunch arrangements
As noon approaches, the focus shifts to preparing lunch. Filipino domestic workers often cook meals for the family, which may involve traditional Saudi dishes or a mix of cuisines depending on the employer’s preferences.

• Meal preparation: Chopping, cooking, and setting the table.
• Serving lunch to the family.
• Cleaning the kitchen and dining area after the meal.

1:30–2:30 PM: Lunch break and rest
Saudi labor regulations and bilateral agreements with the Philippines mandate at least nine hours of rest daily, including breaks for meals and personal time.

Helpers typically have a lunch break of 1–1.5 hours, which they can use to eat, rest, or call family in the Philippines.

Afternoon: Resuming chores and caring for family members

2:30–4:30 PM: Afternoon tasks
After lunch, domestic helpers resume their duties. This period may involve lighter chores or specialized tasks, such as:

• Watering plants or tending to the garden.
• Organizing wardrobes or storage areas.
• Running errands within the household compound.
• Supervising children’s homework or playtime if they return from school.

3:30–4:00 PM: Short break
A 30–45 minute break is common in the afternoon, allowing helpers to rest and recharge before the evening rush.

Evening: Dinner preparation and winding down

4:30–7:00 PM: Dinner prep and evening routines
As the day winds down, the focus returns to the kitchen for dinner preparation. Domestic helpers may also assist with bathing children, setting the dining table, and serving the evening meal.

• Preparing and serving dinner.
• Cleaning up after the meal.

Evening housekeeping tasks: tidying living rooms, washing dishes, taking out trash.

7:00–8:00 PM: Final chores and personal time
After dinner, helpers finish any remaining tasks, such as preparing uniforms for the next day or doing a final round of cleaning.

Employers are encouraged to allow helpers at least 1–2 hours of wind-down time before bed for personal chores, relaxation, or connecting with family.

Night: Rest and personal well-being

8:00–10:00 PM: Wind-down and sleep
By 8:00 or 9:00 PM, most helpers have completed their duties and can begin to relax. Saudi law and the standard employment contract require at least eight hours of continuous sleep to ensure the worker’s health and well-being.

Some helpers use this time to pray, watch TV, or chat with friends and relatives online.

• Personal hygiene and changing into sleepwear.
• Quiet time for personal activities.
• Lights out by 10:00 PM for a full night’s rest.

Rights, challenges, and tips for aspiring domestic workers

Legal protections and entitlements
Recent reforms in Saudi Arabia and agreements with the Philippines have strengthened the rights of domestic workers:

• Minimum salary of 1,500 Saudi Riyals for Filipino housemaids.
• At least nine hours of daily rest, including eight hours of continuous sleep.
• One day off per week, subject to agreement.
• Right to keep personal documents (passport, residence card).
• Access to a phone for family communication.
• Medical care and paid sick leave.
• Salary paid through a bank account in the worker’s name.

Challenges and adaptation

Despite these protections, Filipino domestic helpers may face challenges such as homesickness, cultural differences, and occasional disputes with employers. Open communication, cultural sensitivity, and knowing one’s rights are essential for a positive experience.

Tips for success

• Establish a routine and communicate with your employer about your schedule and rest needs.
• Take care of your physical and mental health—rest when possible and stay connected with loved ones.
• Learn basic Arabic phrases and local customs to ease integration.
• Keep copies of your employment contract and important documents.

Conclusion

The typical workday of a Filipino domestic helper in Riyadh is structured, demanding, and shaped by both cultural expectations and evolving legal protections.

While the work is challenging, it offers meaningful rewards and opportunities for those seeking to support their families. Understanding the daily routine, rights, and responsibilities helps aspiring workers prepare for life in Saudi Arabia and make the most of their overseas journey.