Saudi Arabia’s Deadly Housemaids Trade: How East African Women Are Sent to Their Deaths

The tragic deaths of East African domestic workers in Saudi Arabia have cast a spotlight on the perilous conditions many face, underscoring systemic issues within the labor migration framework.

Economic Incentives and Recruitment Drives

In early 2023, the Ethiopian government initiated an extensive campaign to deploy up to 500,000 women to Saudi Arabia for domestic roles. This state-sponsored program was promoted as a pathway to economic betterment, with recruits offered government-funded flights and the prospect of earning approximately 1,000 Saudi riyals (about $266) monthly. Officials highlighted the program's potential to bolster Ethiopia's economy and provide safer migration alternatives compared to hazardous routes through Yemen. 

The Kafala System and Workers' Vulnerabilities

Central to the challenges faced by migrant domestic workers is the "kafala" system, prevalent in Saudi Arabia. This sponsorship framework ties workers' legal status to their employers, severely restricting their mobility and ability to seek redress for grievances. Despite some regulatory amendments in 2021, many migrant workers remain excluded from comprehensive labor protections, rendering them susceptible to exploitation, abuse, and deplorable working conditions. 

Human Rights Concerns and International Scrutiny

Saudi Arabia's human rights record, particularly concerning migrant workers, has been a focal point of international criticism. The kingdom's successful bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup intensified scrutiny, with rights groups accusing Saudi Arabia of attempting to "whitewash" its human rights abuses. Reports highlighted the exploitation of migrant workers, absence of labor unions, lack of a minimum wage, and the persistence of the restrictive kafala system. 

Recent Allegations of Border Violence

In February 2025, alarming reports emerged accusing Saudi border forces of killing and injuring hundreds of Ethiopian migrants attempting to cross from Yemen between 2019 and 2024. Testimonies detailed instances of machine gun fire, explosive attacks, and severe physical abuse, resulting in numerous deaths along the border. Human Rights Watch characterized these actions as systematic and potentially constituting crimes against humanity. 

Conclusion

The recurring tragedies involving East African domestic workers in Saudi Arabia highlight the urgent need for comprehensive labor reforms and robust protections for migrant workers. Addressing the systemic issues within the kafala system, ensuring enforcement of labor rights, and fostering international accountability are critical steps toward safeguarding the lives and dignity of these vulnerable individuals.