RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has revised the labour laws to impose strict punishments for the exploitation of employees. Strict action will be taken if the employer keeps the documents like the passport and Iqama of the workers. Withholding of workers' wages and discrimination in the workplace are also serious violations under the Labour Act.

According to the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, the fines for these offences have also been revised. A fine of 5,000 Riyals must be paid if a worker is employed without a work permit. The same fine should be paid even if it is not recorded in the Ajeer. A fine ranging from 1,500 to 5,000 Riyals is imposed in case of violation of workers' safety and health protection. A fine of 1,000 to 2,000 Riyals is imposed for employing children under 15 years of age. A fine of 1,000 Riyals must be paid if women come to work six weeks after giving birth. A fine of up to 3,000 Riyals is imposed in case of gender discrimination in employment or advertisement.