The Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has extended the grace period to regularize the status of domestic workers who have run away from their employers for another six months, effective from November 11. The decision allows domestic workers who are still in the Kingdom to correct their legal status through the Musaned platform.
The ministry had initially announced a six-month grace period starting May 11, 2025, for domestic workers reported absent from work, known as “huroob.” The new extension applies only to workers who were reported absent before the announcement date. The Musaned platform will facilitate the regularization process, enabling employers and domestic workers to complete the necessary procedures automatically.
Simplifying the Regularization Process for Domestic Workers
The ministry explained that the grace period aims to provide an opportunity for domestic workers and their employers to rectify their legal status. By utilizing the Musaned platform, new employers can log in and complete the procedures, contributing to an improved work environment and safeguarding the rights of both parties. According to the ministry, this initiative is part of its ongoing efforts to develop the domestic worker sector in the Kingdom.
The Musaned platform, the official platform of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development for household services, allows domestic workers who have been reported absent or have expired residency permits to regularize their status. They can transfer their services to new employers after completing the necessary procedures. The initiative is in line with the ministry’s efforts to improve contractual relationships and regulate the labor market.
Initiatives to Regulate Domestic Workers’ Employment
The ministry’s decision to extend the grace period reflects its commitment to improving the domestic worker sector. By providing a platform for domestic workers to correct their status, the ministry aims to reduce the number of workers who are in the Kingdom illegally. The regularization process is expected to have a positive impact on the labor market, as it will enable employers to hire domestic workers legally.
Additionally, the ministry’s efforts to regulate the labor market are part of a broader initiative to improve the overall work environment in the Kingdom. By simplifying the regularization process and providing a platform for domestic workers to correct their status, the ministry is taking steps to protect the rights of both employers and employees. The report indicates that the ministry is working to create a more streamlined and efficient process for hiring domestic workers.
Benefits for Employers and Domestic Workers
The regularization process is expected to benefit both employers and domestic workers. Employers will be able to hire domestic workers legally, reducing the risk of penalties associated with employing workers without proper documentation. Domestic workers, on the other hand, will be able to work legally, accessing better working conditions and protections under Saudi labor laws.
As the grace period progresses, it remains to be seen how many domestic workers will take advantage of the regularization process. The ministry’s efforts to simplify the process through the Musaned platform are expected to encourage more workers to come forward and correct their status. Employers and domestic workers should be aware of the deadline and the procedures required to regularize their status.
