Embassy urges citizens in Saudi Arabia to observe labour laws
The advisory comes amid compliance exercises by the Saudi government aimed at ensuring adherence to immigration laws
The Kenyan Embassy in Saudi Arabia has urged Kenyan nationals living and working in the Kingdom to strictly adhere to the country's residency, labour, and immigration laws to avoid legal complications that could jeopardize their stay and employment.
In a statement, the embassy advised Kenyans to ensure that their residency permits (Iqama) remain valid and are renewed promptly in accordance with Saudi regulations. It also emphasized the importance of observing the terms and conditions outlined in employment contracts and complying with all labour requirements set by Saudi authorities.
The advisory comes amid ongoing nationwide compliance and inspection exercises by the Saudi government aimed at strengthening labour governance, regulating the labour market, and ensuring adherence to immigration laws.
The embassy further called on Kenyan workers to refrain from engaging in unauthorized employment, or overstaying after the expiry of their visas or permits.
“The Embassy urges all Kenyans to remain vigilant, law-abiding, and to promptly seek consular guidance whenever assistance or clarification is required,” the statement said.
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It reiterated that the safety, dignity, and well-being of Kenyan citizens abroad remain a key priority and encouraged nationals facing challenges related to employment, documentation, or residency status to seek assistance through official channels.
Saudi Arabia remains one of the leading destinations for Kenyan migrant workers, particularly in sectors such as domestic work, hospitality, healthcare, construction, and other skilled professions. The Kingdom hosts more than 300,000 Kenyans, making it one of Kenya's largest diaspora communities and a major source of remittances to the country's economy.
According to data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), Kenyan workers in Saudi Arabia sent more than Sh1.6 billion back to the country in diaspora remittances, playing a crucial role in supporting families and contributing to national development.
Last week, as part of efforts to strengthen engagement with the Kenyan diaspora, the embassy hosted Kenyan professionals in Saudi Arabia for a networking session at its premises in the capital, Riyadh.
The forum brought together professionals from various sectors and provided an opportunity for participants to discuss ways of enhancing collaboration among Kenyans in the Kingdom. Discussions focused on initiatives aimed at strengthening professional networks, improving access to embassy services, and developing a comprehensive database of Kenyan professionals living and working in Saudi Arabia.
