Jeddah: The Ministry of Labor has said that workers should not be hired without an employment contract in Saudi Arabia. Such violations fall under the purview of human trafficking. The ministry also warned that strict punitive measures will be taken against such violators.
Under the country’s revised labor law, it is mandatory for the employer to have a formal employment contract with the workers. The ministry warned that employing a worker without an employment contract is punishable.
Forced employment, charging forced fees or expenses from employees, denying statutory leave, and visa trading also fall within the purview of human trafficking. Conducting medical tests on workers, withholding the worker’s passport, using force, intimidation, forcing the worker to beg, and employing children under the age of 15 will also fall under the same offence. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has also warned that strict punitive measures will be taken against those who violate the law.