Saudi announces departure of 1,400 domestic workers

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Labour and Social Development has announced the departure of 1,392 domestic workers staying in shelter accommodation to their home countries.

Arab News reports that the departures took place during the Hijri month of Shawwal, which ran from June 25 to July 24.

The shelter accommodation is designed to care for runaway female domestic workers until cases with their employers are resolved and repatriation to their home country can be arranged.

Preparations are also underway to repatriate all female workers staying in shelters in the kingdom.

The ministry approved new rules in February to allow domestic workers to transfer to new employers if they are not paid for three consecutive or separate months.

Read: Saudi labour ministry allows transfer of domestic workers

The ministry said in case of disputes between a worker and their employer one side should launch an official compliant with the domestic labour arbitration committee.