Kenyans in Saudi Arabia to Pocket A Minimum Salary of Ksh34,455 Under Fresh Agreement
Kenyans employed in Saudi Arabia are set to receive a significant pay boost following the Gulf nation’s announcement of a new minimum wage for all workers.
Effective February 2026, all employees in the Kingdom will earn at least 1,000 Saudi Riyals (approximately Ksh 34,455) per month, the Saudi government has confirmed. The move forms part of the country’s ongoing labour reforms, following major changes to the controversial Kafala sponsorship system.
In an official statement, the Kenyan Embassy in Riyadh urged citizens working in the Kingdom to verify the implementation of the new minimum salaries with their employers.
“The Embassy wishes to inform all Kenyan workers that, effective February 2026, the Government of Saudi Arabia will implement a minimum salary of SAR 1,000 per month for all workers. This is in line with ongoing labour reforms following changes to the Kafala system,” the statement read.
The Embassy further advised workers to report any discrepancies or violations promptly to ensure compliance and safeguard their rights under the revised labour regulations.
Historically, Saudi Arabia’s minimum wage structure varied depending on nationality. Saudi nationals in the private sector were guaranteed a minimum of SAR 4,000 (around Ksh 517,139), while foreign workers had no official wage floor. This left many migrant workers, including Kenyans, reliant on employer discretion for their pay.
Labour analysts say the new policy marks a significant step toward greater fairness for foreign workers in the Kingdom, although concerns remain over enforcement and adherence by private employers.
“This minimum wage initiative is a positive development for Kenyan workers in Saudi Arabia,” said Dr. Esther Mwangi, a migration and labour expert. “However, continuous monitoring will be critical to ensure employers comply and that workers fully benefit from these reforms.”
The change underscores Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to modernise its labour market and enhance protections for foreign employees, who form a substantial portion of the country’s workforce.
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Kenyans in Saudi Arabia to Pocket A Minimum Salary of Ksh34,455 Under Fresh Agreement