Saudi Arabia's Domestic Workers Law guarantees all domestic employees who complete two or more years of service a mandatory End of Service Gratuity. This is a legal right — not optional. This guide explains exactly how to calculate it with real SAR examples.
⚡ Quick Facts
| ⚖️ Legal Basis | Saudi Domestic Workers Law (2013) + MLSD Regulations |
| ✅ Minimum Service | 2 years for full gratuity |
| 💰 Rate | 1 month salary per year after 2 years |
| 📞 MLSD Disputes | 19911 |
🧮 Gratuity Formula
📊 Saudi Domestic Worker Gratuity Formula:
Gratuity = Monthly Salary × Years of Service
(After completing 2+ years. Partial years calculated pro-rata.)
📊 Real Examples in SAR
| Monthly Salary | Years of Service | Gratuity Payable |
|---|---|---|
| SAR 800 | 2 years | SAR 1,600 |
| SAR 1,000 | 2 years | SAR 2,000 |
| SAR 1,200 | 3 years | SAR 3,600 |
| SAR 1,500 | 4 years | SAR 6,000 |
| SAR 2,000 | 5 years | SAR 10,000 |
✅ When Is Gratuity Payable?
| Scenario | Gratuity? |
|---|---|
| Contract completed (2+ years) | ✅ Full amount |
| Employer terminates without cause | ✅ Full + additional compensation |
| Worker resigns after 2+ years | ✅ Full amount |
| Worker resigns before 2 years | ⚠️ Partial — pro-rata for completed months |
| Worker dismissed for gross misconduct | ⚠️ May be forfeited — MLSD determines |
✈️ Other End of Service Entitlements
- ✅ Return air ticket to home country
- ✅ All unpaid wages settled
- ✅ Unused annual leave paid in cash
- ✅ Notice period pay if dismissed without proper notice
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is gratuity mandatory if the worker worked less than 2 years?
For domestic workers in Saudi Arabia, pro-rata gratuity may apply after 1 year. The full 1-month-per-year formula applies from 2 years onwards. MLSD handles disputes on shorter periods.
Can my employer refuse to pay gratuity?
No — gratuity is a legally protected right. File a complaint with MLSD at 19911. Saudi Labour Courts enforce payment with interest on delays.
Does the SR 20,000 employer fine affect gratuity?
The SR 20,000 fine is a separate penalty for employers who violate the domestic worker law. Gratuity is a separate obligation that must still be paid in addition to any fines.
What if the employer left Saudi Arabia without paying gratuity?
File a complaint with MLSD. Saudi authorities can take action against absconding employers including travel bans and asset freezes.
🏠 Looking to Hire a Domestic Worker in Saudi Arabia?
GCC Domestic connects families across Saudi Arabia with MLSD-verified domestic worker agencies via Musaned. Browse packages, compare workers, and hire legally.
📌 Source: Saudi Arabia Domestic Workers Law — Updated 2026. Always verify at musaned.com.sa
