Saudi Will Mandate Electronic Salary Payments For Domestic Workers in

Electronic salary payments will become mandatory for all domestic workers in Saudi Arabia on January 1st, 2026, with employers required to use the Musaned platform through recognised banks or digital wallets rather than cash. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development stated that the policy is intended to improve wage protection, increase transparency, and streamline employment processes.

Under the system, payments made via Musaned provide documented proof of salary, ensure regular and secure disbursements, and simplify procedures linked to contract termination or travel. Workers will be able to transfer earnings to family members abroad through approved channels. Cash withdrawals remain possible through approved outlets using a Mada card issued to the worker.

The rollout has been phased since mid 2024. From July 1st, 2024, the requirement applied to new domestic workers arriving in the Kingdom, then extended to employers with four or more domestic workers in January 2025, three or more in July 2025, and two or more in October 2025.
From January 1st, 2026, it will apply to all domestic workers, regardless of household size.

Musaned guidelines state that salaries are to be paid at the end of each Hijri month as per contract unless both parties agree otherwise in writing. For workers outside the Wage Protection System, salaries may still be paid in cash or cheque with proper documentation unless the worker requests electronic payment. The ministry said the measure will enhance payment reliability, reduce disputes, and contribute to the professional development of the domestic worker sector.