Saudi Arabia Electronic Salaries Rule Begins in 2026 for Domestic Workers
Saudi Arabia will enforce electronic salary transfers for domestic workers from January 1, 2026.The rule aims to protect wages and boost transparency across the sector.
As a result, cash payments will no longer be the main option. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development announced the change recently. It wants to strengthen trust between employers and workers. Therefore, salary records will remain clear and verifiable.
Under the new rule, employers must use official digital channels. These include approved banks and licensed digital wallets. All payments will move through the Musaned platform.
How the System Works
The Musaned platform will manage electronic salary transfers. It ensures payments stay secure and on time. In addition, it reduces disputes over unpaid wages.
Officials say the system improves reliability for everyone involved. It also limits risks linked to cash handling. As a result, administrative work becomes faster and simpler. Domestic workers can send money abroad safely.
They can use the same official channels. This feature supports families who depend on remittances.
Benefits for Workers and Employers
Electronic salary transfers offer verified payment records. They also support smoother contract termination procedures. For example, travel or exit processes become easier. Wages must match the employment contract terms.
Payments should arrive at the end of each Hijri month. However, both sides may agree to a different date in writing.
Workers may still withdraw cash if needed. They can use approved channels with a Mada card. This keeps access flexible while remaining compliant.
Phased Rollout Before 2026
Saudi Arabia introduced the policy in stages. The first phase started in July 2024. It covered domestic workers arriving for the first time. In January 2025, the rule expanded to large households .It applied to employers with four or more workers. Later phases reduced that number gradually. By October 2025, employers with two workers joined. Therefore, full coverage will begin in 2026.The move supports long term sector development.
