Do Housemaids in Saudi Arabia Fall Ill?

The misconception that being a housemaid in Saudi Arabia guarantees immunity from illness is just that—a myth. People can and do fall sick. However, the extent of healthcare access and support available varies significantly.

Health Challenges and Support

Being human, illness is an inescapable part of life. Housemaids, like anyone else, are prone to falling ill. However, the cultural and religious context in Saudi Arabia plays a significant role in attitudes towards their wellbeing. Arabs are renowned for their generosity and kindness. As Muslims, they believe in their moral and religious duty to care for those around them, including their house aides, meaning that maids are often given days off when they are sick, especially in more compassionate households.

However, the reality is more complex. Non-Arab countries report lower standards of treatment for migrant workers, including housemaids. Therefore, it is plausible that conditions for housemaids in Saudi Arabia, especially if they are from non-Arab countries, could be less favorable. Nevertheless, sick housemaids are generally entitled to some form of respite depending on the severity of their condition.

Healthcare Issues and Forced Confinement

One of the most concerning issues in Saudi Arabia is the practice of forced confinement. Many exploited domestic workers are locked into their residences for the duration of their employment without the ability to interact with the outside world. This not only hinders social and mental health but also limits access to proper medical care. The misfortune of some housemaids who died by cutting off their limbs is a disturbing reality, highlighting the desperate conditions they sometimes face.

The question of whether employers can grant their maids time off when they become ill or injured is distinct from the issue of their physical and mental wellbeing. A responsible employer would prioritize their health and safety, whether to provide paid or unpaid leave. Personally, if a household employee were ill, I would prefer them to rest and recuperate to avoid spreading any illness to the household.

Fair Treatment and Health Safety

Working in Saudi Arabia does not immunize one from falling sick. Ensuring that domestic workers have access to adequate healthcare and are treated fairly is crucial. This includes providing not just physical but also mental health support, ensuring reasonable working conditions, and protecting them from exploitation. Employers, governments, and societies as a whole have a responsibility to safeguard the rights and health of these workers.

Conclusion

While illness is an inevitable part of life, the conditions under which housemaids in Saudi Arabia work emphasize the importance of fair treatment and health and safety measures. Protecting the rights of domestic workers contributes to a more just and humane society.