Domestic Worker Salary Transfer in Saudi Arabia from 2026

Saudi Arabia will mandate domestic worker salary transfer in Saudi Arabia through official digital channels starting January 1, 2026, marking a major reform in how domestic workers are paid across the Kingdom.

This decision, issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, aims to protect workers’ wage rights, reduce disputes, and bring greater transparency to employer-employee relationships in the domestic labor sector.

What Is the Domestic Worker Salary Transfer Policy?

The domestic worker salary transfer in Saudi Arabia policy requires employers to pay salaries electronically instead of cash. Payments must be processed through approved banks or digital wallets using official government systems.

This rule applies to all categories of domestic workers, including housemaids, drivers, cooks, and private caregivers, once fully enforced in 2026.

Why Saudi Arabia Is Enforcing Digital Salary Payments

For years, cash salary payments made it difficult to verify whether domestic workers were paid on time or in full. The new system ensures:

• Proof of salary payment
• Regular and timely wages
• Reduced labor disputes
• Stronger legal protection for both parties

This aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader digital transformation and labor reform initiatives.

Role of Musaned in Domestic Worker Salary Transfer

Musaned is the official platform responsible for managing domestic worker contracts and salary transfers.

Through Musaned:

• Salaries are transferred via approved banks and digital wallets
• Payments match the amount stated in the employment contract
• Salary history is recorded and verifiable

Phased Implementation Timeline Explained

The domestic worker salary transfer system has been rolled out gradually:

• July 1, 2024: New domestic workers entering Saudi Arabia
• January 2025: Employers with 4+ domestic workers
• July 2025: Employers with 3+ domestic workers
• October 1, 2025: Employers with 2+ domestic workers
• January 1, 2026: Mandatory for all employers

How Salary Payments Will Be Made

Employers must pay the exact salary agreed in the contract, usually at the end of each Hijri month, unless both parties agree otherwise in writing.

Domestic workers will receive:

• Digital wallet or bank transfer payments
• A Mada card for cash withdrawal if needed
• The ability to send money abroad securely

Wage Protection System (WPS) Rules

• If a domestic worker falls under WPS, salary transfer through official channels is mandatory
• If not covered, wages may be paid in cash or cheque with written proof
• Workers may still request transfer to a specific bank account

Benefits for Employers and Domestic Workers

For Employers

• Legal compliance
• Clear salary records
• Easier contract termination procedures

For Domestic Workers

• Guaranteed salary payments
• Proof of income
• Secure money transfers to families

Important Tips & Common Mistakes

Tips

• Register contracts early on Musaned
• Do not delay salary transfers
• Ensure salary matches the contract exactly

Common Mistakes

• Paying partial salaries
• Delayed transfers
• Relying on undocumented cash payments

FAQs: Domestic Worker Salary Transfer in Saudi Arabia

Is salary transfer mandatory for all domestic workers?
Yes, from January 1, 2026.

Can domestic workers withdraw cash?
Yes, via Mada cards through approved channels.

Is cash payment still allowed?
Only in limited cases with written documentation.

Who oversees this system?
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development through Musaned.