Saudi Arabia: Employers to cover return ticket costs for expatriate workers
This move is part of a broader reform to protect the rights and welfare of non-Saudi workers in the Kingdom.
Dubai: In a significant step towards protecting the rights of non-Saudi workers, Saudi Arabia has implemented new regulations requiring employers to cover the return ticket costs for employees upon the termination of their contractual relationship. This move is part of a broader reform aimed at ensuring the welfare and well-being of foreign workers in the Kingdom.
Comprehensive employer responsibilities
Under the updated regulations, employers are responsible for a wide range of expenses related to the employment of foreign workers. These include:
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Recruitment costs: Employers must bear the costs of recruitment, including residence fees, work permits, and renewals.
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Fines and penalties: Any fines arising from delays or violations related to the worker's employment are the employer's responsibility.
Professional changes: Costs associated with changing a worker's profession or job role are also covered by the employer.
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Exit and Return Fees: Employers are obligated to pay exit and return fees for workers.
Application of return ticket law
Upon the termination of an employment contract, the employer must provide a return ticket for the worker to their home country, unless the termination is due to the worker's unfitness for work or their desire to return home without a valid reason. In such cases, the worker would be responsible for the return ticket costs.
Transfer of services
The updated law also stipulates that employers are responsible for the fees associated with transferring a worker's services to another employer if the worker chooses to do so.
Post-mortem arrangements
In the event of a worker's death during their employment, the employer must cover all expenses related to the preparation and transportation of the worker's body back to their country of origin or the location from where they were recruited, unless there is an agreement with the worker's relatives to bury the body within Saudi Arabia.
Impact on foreign workers
These new regulations are expected to have a significant positive impact on the lives of foreign workers in Saudi Arabia. By ensuring that employers bear the costs of return tickets and other related expenses, the Saudi government is demonstrating its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of non-Saudi workers.