Saudi Arabia has announced a new minimum wage of 1,000 Saudi Riyals (about Ksh34,455) for all workers, including Kenyans, effective February 2026. This reform aims to protect foreign employees previously without official pay guarantees. The Kenyan Embassy in Riyadh has urged workers to verify compliance with their employers.
Kenyans employed in Saudi Arabia are set to benefit from a significant labour reform as the Kingdom introduces a universal minimum wage. Effective February 2026, every worker will earn at least 1,000 Saudi Riyals per month, equivalent to approximately Ksh34,455. This change follows ongoing updates to the Kafala sponsorship system, which has historically left foreign workers vulnerable to employer discretion on pay.
The Kenyan Embassy in Riyadh issued a statement highlighting the development. "The Embassy wishes to inform all Kenyan workers that, effective February 2026, the Government of Saudi Arabia will implement a minimum salary of SAR 1,000 per month for all workers. This is in line with ongoing labour reforms following changes to the Kafala system," the statement read. Embassy officials advised Kenyan workers to promptly confirm the new rates with their employers and report any non-compliance to safeguard their rights under the revised regulations.
Prior to this, Saudi Arabia had no official minimum wage for foreign workers, unlike for nationals. Saudi citizens in the private sector receive a minimum of SAR 4,000 (around Ksh137,822), while those in the public sector get SAR 3,000 (about Ksh103,366). The disparity often placed expatriates, including many Kenyans in domestic and low-skilled roles, at a disadvantage.
In October, the Saudi Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development launched a standardised employment contract to enhance worker protections, reduce disputes, and promote transparency. This initiative supports broader efforts to attract global investment by streamlining labour processes.
The announcement comes amid recent scrutiny of Kenya's diplomatic support for its citizens in Saudi Arabia, particularly stranded workers. However, officials maintain that proper channels exist for assistance.