How to File a Labour Complaint in Saudi Arabia
If your employer in Saudi Arabia has violated your contract, withheld wages, or mistreated you, Saudi labour law gives you the right to file a formal complaint. The process starts with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) and can escalate to the Labour Court if needed. Here is exactly how to do it.
Where to File: HRSD and Musaned
The primary authority for labour complaints in Saudi Arabia is the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD), formerly known as the Ministry of Labour. You have three options for filing.
Online via Musaned: Visit musaned.com.sa and log in with your Absher credentials. Navigate to "Services" then "Submit a Complaint." This is the fastest method and gives you a tracking number immediately.
Phone hotline 19911: Call the unified HRSD hotline. Available in Arabic, English, Urdu, Hindi, Tagalog, and other languages. The operator will register your complaint and provide a case number.
In-person at HRSD office: Visit any HRSD branch with your documents. Offices operate Sunday to Thursday, 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM. Walk-ins are accepted but appointments via the Mawid system are recommended.
Step-by-Step Process
Once you file, the process follows a structured path under Saudi Labour Law (Royal Decree No. M/51).
Step 1 — Amicable Settlement (21 days): HRSD contacts your employer and attempts mediation. Both parties are summoned to the HRSD office. If your employer agrees to resolve the issue (pay wages, correct the contract, etc.), the case is closed with a settlement record.
Step 2 — Referral to Labour Court: If no settlement is reached within 21 working days, HRSD refers the case to the Labour Court. You receive a court date, typically within 3 to 6 weeks of referral.
Step 3 — Labour Court hearing: The Labour Court examines evidence from both sides. Hearings are conducted in Arabic (translators provided). The court issues a verdict, usually within 30 to 90 days. Either party can appeal within 30 days.
Required Documents
Copy of your iqama (residency permit) or passport
Employment contract — if unavailable, HRSD can pull it from Qiwa system
Salary slips or bank statements showing payment issues
Any written communication: WhatsApp messages, emails, letters from employer
Time limit: You must file your complaint within 12 months of the date the violation occurred. After 12 months, the Labour Court may reject the claim as time-barred under Article 222 of the Saudi Labour Law.
Common Reasons for Complaints
The most frequent labour complaints in Saudi Arabia involve: unpaid wages or delayed salary (violation of the Wage Protection System), employer refusing to transfer iqama or issue exit/re-entry visa, wrongful termination without end-of-service benefits, contract terms differing from what was agreed, and employer confiscating passports (illegal under Saudi law since 2009).
Passport confiscation is a criminal offence in Saudi Arabia. If your employer holds your passport, report it immediately through HRSD and the police. This is treated as a serious violation under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Law.
Protection During the Complaint
While your complaint is being processed, your employer cannot cancel your iqama or deport you. HRSD may issue a temporary work permit allowing you to transfer to another employer or stay in the country until the case is resolved. Under the Labour Reform Initiative introduced in 2021, workers can also change employers without the current employer's consent once the notice period has expired.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I file a labour complaint in Saudi Arabia?
Through HRSD via the Musaned portal (musaned.com.sa), by calling 19911, or in person at any HRSD office. The complaint must be filed within 12 months of the dispute.
How long does resolution take?
HRSD aims for settlement within 21 working days. If referred to Labour Court, expect 3 to 6 months for a first-instance decision, plus 30 to 60 days if appealed.
Can I file with an expired iqama?
Yes. Saudi labour law protects all workers regardless of residency status. HRSD may issue a temporary permit while the case is resolved.
What documents do I need?
Iqama or passport copy, employment contract, salary slips or bank statements, and any written communication with your employer.
Check Your Contract Before Filing
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