Picture this: A bustling kitchen in Riyadh, a housekeeper wiping sweat off her brow as she goes about her chores. Soon, the way she gets paid for her hard work will change forever. Yes, starting January 1, 2026, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development in Saudi Arabia is enforcing a groundbreaking decision. Employers must transfer the salaries of all domestic workers through official channels. This is not just an upgrade; it's a sea change.

What's the Big Deal?

This isn't just about moving money from one account to another. It's about fairness, respect, and dignity for domestic workers. This initiative is a giant leap forward in protecting salary rights and bringing transparency to the often-murky waters of employer-employee relations. No more under-the-table cash payments. Now, everything will be above board.

The Musaned platform is at the heart of this new system. It's not just a service; it's a lifeline for many. By using digital wallets and participating banks, the Ministry aims to make wage payments reliable. It's about making sure everyone gets what they rightfully deserve, without delay or doubt.

Why Does It Matter?

This change isn't just about numbers and transactions. It's about people. For domestic workers, it means peace of mind. Their salaries will be verified, consistent, and secure. And if they want to send money home, they can do it easily and safely through these official channels. No more worrying if their hard-earned money will make it to their families.

But it's not just the workers who benefit. Employers will find the process simplified, making it easier to handle everything from contract terminations to travel arrangements. It's a win-win situation, streamlining operations for everyone involved.

Breaking It Down: The Phases

Let's talk phases. The transition didn't happen overnight. It began on July 1, 2024, targeting domestic workers setting foot in Saudi Arabia for the first time. This was a calculated move to curb cash transactions and spruce up the working environment. By January 2025, the program expanded to employers with four or more workers. Then, in July 2025, it covered those with three or more. And come October 1, those with two or more domestic workers were included. It's a methodical rollout, ensuring no one is left behind.

Details from Musaned

According to Musaned, the wage stipulated in the contract is non-negotiable unless both parties agree in writing. This wage must be paid at the end of each Hijri month. If a worker prefers cash, that's fine too. They can withdraw it using a Mada card, provided it's done through approved channels.

For workers under the Wage Protection System, salary transfers via official channels are mandatory. But if not, wages can be paid in cash, by check, or transferred to a specific bank account if the worker desires it. The key is documentation, ensuring every transaction is recorded and transparent.