Saudi Arabia, Kenya sign deal to regulate recruitment of domestic workers

Saudi Arabia and Kenya have entered into an agreement to regulate the recruitment of domestic workers, meeting in Riyadh to discuss strengthening cooperation. Deputy Minister of Human Resources and Social Development Abdullah Abuthnain met with Kenya's Labour and Social Protection Secretary Alfred Nganga Mutua, alongside senior officials from both nations.

The talks focused on enhancing cooperation in labor matters, particularly the recruitment process, pre-departure training, contractual rights, and the overall quality of recruitment services.

Key points of the agreement include the development of mechanisms for recruitment, improvement of training programs, and raising awareness of workers' rights. Both sides also aimed to streamline technical coordination, share expertise, and better regulate the recruitment procedures. The meeting resulted in a technical annex signed on July 5, 2026, which seeks to streamline and reduce the costs of recruiting Kenyan domestic workers to Saudi Arabia.

The annex aims to improve the efficiency of recruitment procedures, ensure compliance with regulations, protect the rights of both parties, and maintain a stable contractual relationship between Saudi Arabia and Kenya. This agreement reinforces the long-standing relationship between the two nations, showcasing their commitment to enhancing labor cooperation and promoting sustainable partnerships that benefit both countries.