Riyadh, October 23: In a landmark decision, Saudi Arabia has officially abolished its 50-year-old kafala (sponsorship) system, marking one of the most significant labour reforms in the kingdom’s history.
The new law, which will take effect in June 2025, allows foreign workers to change jobs, travel abroad, and access labour courts without needing their employer’s consent or exit visas.
For decades, the kafala system has been heavily criticised by international human rights organisations for giving employers excessive control over migrant workers. Under the old system, millions of workers were denied basic rights, often trapped in exploitative conditions, and unable to leave jobs or return home without their sponsor’s approval.
The abolition of kafala represents a major step toward improving migrant welfare and labour rights in Saudi Arabia, home to more than 10 million foreign workers.
Officials say the reform will bring Saudi labour laws in line with international human rights standards, while boosting the nation’s reputation as a modern, reform-driven economy under Vision 2030—Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s plan to diversify the economy and strengthen governance.
Global organisations, including the International Labour Organization (ILO) and Human Rights Watch (HRW), have welcomed the move, calling it a milestone in protecting workers’ dignity and freedom across the Gulf region.
The new system is expected to empower millions of migrant workers from countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the Philippines, ensuring fairer working conditions and greater job mobility in the years ahead.
