Steps for transferring domestic worker salaries and the mandatory date in 2026

The Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, through its "Musaned" platform, has confirmed that the fifth and final phase of the mandatory digital transfer of domestic worker salaries is nearing implementation. This mandatory requirement will apply to all employers and domestic workers without exception, starting January 1, 2026, in a move aimed at regulating the labor market and protecting workers' rights.

Context of the decision and its strategic objectives

This decision comes as part of a comprehensive strategy adopted by the Kingdom to develop the domestic labor sector, and in line with the goals of Vision 2030 for digital transformation and reducing cash transactions. The new system aims to enhance transparency in the contractual relationship between employers and employees, and ensure that workers receive their financial dues on time, thus contributing to reducing labor disputes and providing a safe and reliable work environment for all.

Timeline for implementing the decision

This requirement was not implemented overnight, but rather through carefully planned preparatory phases to ensure a smooth implementation. The "Musaned" platform began its phased rollout on July 1, 2024, initially covering new domestic workers arriving in the Kingdom for the first time. Subsequent phases expanded to include broader segments based on the number of workers employed by each employer

• January 2025: Mandatory for those with more than 4 domestic workers.
• July 2025: The decision included those with 3 or more employees.
• October 2025: Implemented for those with two or more employees.
• January 2026: Universal and final application to everyone.

Steps to activate the salary transfer service

To ensure compliance with the decision and avoid any violations, employers must follow these steps to document payments made via digital wallets:

1. SIM card extraction: Obtaining a mobile number for the worker registered with their residence permit number.
2. Creating a digital wallet: Opening an account for the employee in one of the approved digital wallets (such as stc pay, urpay, etc.) and verifying it.
3. Transfer procedure: The employer logs into his digital wallet, selects the “Domestic Worker Salaries” icon, then selects the worker’s name and clicks “Confirm Payment”.

The service also offers flexible options including transferring advance salaries, loans, or applying deductions, with the need to make notes to clarify the type of transaction.

Essential requirements for the success of the process

The Musaned platform clarified that there are conditions that must be met for the process to be completed successfully, which are:

• Having a documented and valid employment contract through the Musaned platform.
• The transfer should be made from the employer's own bank account or wallet.
• Matching the digital employee account data with their residence number.

Employers can also easily modify wage data (salary increase) by logging into their Musaned account, selecting "Employment", then "Wage Details", entering the new value and saving the changes, which ensures that the data is updated immediately and officially.