Saudi Eases ‘Slave-Like’ Restrictions On Domestic Workers

Tales of Kenyans being subjected to inhumane treatment in Saudi Arabia may soon fizzle out after the country withdrew stringent restrictions on migrant workers.

The relaxation of labour restrictions, announced on Wednesday by Saudi Arabia’s Human Resources Deputy Minister Abdullah bin Nasser Abuthunain, is part of reforms spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

The reforms, which are expected to take effect from next March, are meant to boost the competitiveness of the Gulf kingdom as a labour destination.

The Islamic country has more than 10 million foreign workers, predominantly from poor African and Asian countries.

Saudi Arabia operates under the oppressive ‘kafala’ system, which forbids migrant workers from changing jobs or leaving the country without the employer’s consent.