Because of the frequent reports of abuse among domestic workers in Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom has finally drafted a law or policy for both employers and employees. These laws should be executed by both parties, and any party who violates the said law shall be held liable and be fined depending on the severity of the violation.
Employment Contract
The employee will be given the right to have an overview of the workplace, his or her salary and benefits that will be given once he or she decides to accept the job and sign the contract. Moreover, the contract also cites his or her position and the responsibilities tasked onto him or her.
Performing duties beyond or above his or her contractual obligations is not necessary. Worker’s main responsibilities include carrying out work related orders as ordered by their employer or any of his or her family members. Another responsibility tasked towards them is the safe keeping of their employer’s property. They are also bound to keep their employer’s family, especially the children and elderly members, away from harm. Moreover, the contract also stipulates that sponsorship can only be transferred for household work and therefore cannot be transferred to a business.
Salary Deductions
Employee salary deductions are not permitted by the law. However, some circumstances allow deduction but should not exceed half the salary of the domestic worker. These occurrences include (1) when something has been intentionally destroyed by the worker (2) advances taken by the worker (3) payment of fines done by the employer as directed by the court.
Days Off and Annual Leaves
It is also stipulated that a domestic helper is entitled to a one-day holiday in a week. Moreover, once he or she had been with the employer for at least two years, a one-month paid leave is given as among the benefits.
Probation Period
An employee is given a maximum of 90 days probation period, and during this period, the employee can leave his or her job, or the employer can fire the employee. However, there should be substantial reason for doing so.
End of Service Benefits
Every four consecutive years of work in a single employer, a domestic worker is entitled to an end of service benefit equivalent to that of his or her one month salary. For instance, a domestic helper for a single employer has who has worked for 16 consecutive years receives an end of service benefit amounting to that of his or her 4 months salary.
