Saudi Arabia has made major improvements in recent years to protect the rights of foreign workers. The Kingdom understands that millions of workers from countries like Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and the Philippines play a huge role in its development. Because of this, the government has created stronger laws, better complaint systems, and easier ways to report workplace problems.
In 2025, these changes are even more important. Saudi Arabia continues to modernize its labor market under Vision 2030, and part of this plan is making sure that every worker feels safe, respected, and heard.
This blog explains all the new grievance and complaint channels foreign workers can use in 2025, how they work, what rights workers have, and how you can protect yourself if you face any issue in Saudi Arabia.
Why Complaint Systems Matter for Foreign Workers?
Foreign workers in Saudi Arabia sometimes face challenges such as:
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Delayed salaries
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Passport withholding
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Overwork or long working hours
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Poor living conditions
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Iqama renewal delays
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Contract violations
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Misbehavior by employers or supervisors
In the past, many workers did not know where or how to complain. But now, the Saudi government has made things much easier by introducing simple, accessible, multilingual complaint channels.
Foreign workers in 2025 can file complaints online, by phone, through apps, and even in person.
1. Qiwa Grievance System – The Main Platform in 2025
Qiwa has become the central digital platform for all labor-related services, and in 2025, its complaint system is stronger than ever.
What You Can Report Through Qiwa
Workers can file complaints about:
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Not receiving salaries on time
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Violations of contract terms
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Employer refusing job transfer
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Harassment or mistreatment
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Iqama or exit-reentry delays
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Safety issues at the workplace
Why Qiwa Is Useful
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You can submit complaints in Urdu, which makes it easier for Pakistani workers.
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You can track every step of your case.
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Employers are legally required to respond.
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Qiwa allows workers to escalate the case if no action is taken.
Qiwa is now the official way to file labor complaints before they move to labor courts.
2. Ministry of Human Resources & Social Development (MHRSD) Hotline – 19911
The 19911 helpline is still one of the fastest and easiest ways for foreign workers to report problems.
Why Workers Like 19911
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You can speak in multiple languages, including Urdu.
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You get instant guidance on your rights.
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They help you file a complaint on the spot.
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You do not need an internet connection.
In 2025, the hotline is staffed with trained support agents who can help workers understand Saudi labor laws clearly.
3. Absher “Report Violations” Feature
Absher was originally for government services, but now it includes labor and employer violation reporting.
Workers can report:
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Employers keeping their passport
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Illegal deduction of salary
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Harassment or unsafe conditions
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Delays in issuing or renewing Iqama
Absher keeps the worker’s identity 100% confidential, making it a safe way to complain.
4. Worker Support & Protection Centers (WSPC)
Saudi Arabia now has physical protection centers where workers can walk in and receive help.
They offer:
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Legal advice
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Contract dispute support
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Case registration
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Translation services
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Follow-ups on previous complaints
These centers give workers a chance to explain their problems face-to-face.
5. Wage Protection System (WPS)
This system tracks salary payments electronically. If salaries are delayed or not paid:
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The system automatically flags the employer
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Workers can file a salary complaint instantly
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Companies face penalties for late payments
In 2025, WPS is even stricter, ensuring wage theft becomes nearly impossible.
6. Labor Dispute & Resolution Committees
If your case is serious, it moves to a formal dispute resolution committee.
These committees:
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Listen to both worker and employer
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Review evidence and documents
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Issue a legal decision
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Can transfer the case to labor court if needed
Most cases are resolved within 21–30 days.
7. Mobile Apps Introduced in 2025
Saudi Arabia has launched several updated apps to improve reporting:
Musaned App
For domestic workers:
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Contract disputes
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Misbehavior or abuse
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Salary issues
Mudad App
For company wage transparency:
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Salary delays
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Payroll violations
These apps are updated with simpler menus and multilingual support.
8. Grievances Related to Iqama, Transfers, and Visas
Workers can now report:
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Employers blocking job transfer
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Employers refusing final exit
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Delays in Iqama renewal
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Charging illegal fees
These issues can be reported through:
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Qiwa
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Absher
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Labor offices
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19911 hotline
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WSPC centers
The government takes these complaints very seriously in 2025.
9. Cases Involving Severe Abuse or Threats
Saudi Arabia now has zero-tolerance policies for:
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Physical violence
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Sexual harassment
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Workplace threats
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Forced labor
Such cases can be reported through:
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Police helpline (999)
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Human rights authority
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Ministry of Labor offices
Workers are protected by law and cannot be punished for reporting abuse.
10. Tips for Workers Filing a Complaint
To increase your chances of winning your case, try to:
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Keep copies of your contract
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Save salary slips or bank transfers
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Keep screenshots of messages
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Record dates and details of incidents
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Collect witness statements if possible
Saudi Arabia’s new systems allow digital uploads, making the process easier.
How Marfa Overseas Employment Promoter in Pakistan Supports Workers?
Marfa Overseas ensures that Pakistani workers are fully protected even after reaching Saudi Arabia. We guide workers on their rights, explain how to use complaint channels, and stay in touch to support them throughout their employment journey.
If any worker faces a challenge, Marfa helps connect them with the right Saudi authorities so they can get fast and fair solutions.
FAQ’s About New Grievance Channels for Foreign Workers in Saudi Arabia 2025
1. Can foreign workers file complaints anonymously?
Yes. Platforms like Absher and labor hotlines allow workers to submit complaints without revealing their identity.
2. What happens if an employer does not respond to a complaint?
Qiwa automatically escalates the case to labor authorities or dispute committees.
3. Is it safe for a worker to complain?
Yes. Saudi law protects workers from retaliation. Employers cannot punish employees for filing complaints.
4. How long does it take to resolve a labor complaint?
Most issues are settled within 2–4 weeks, depending on the seriousness of the case.
5. Can I file a complaint if my employer holds my passport?
Yes. Keeping a worker’s passport is illegal, and workers are encouraged to report this immediately.
