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Published on 20 Mar 2026 by Mina D.
Hiring a domestic helper in Saudi Arabia is a common solution for families who need assistance with household chores, childcare, or elderly care. However, understanding the full cost involved is essential before making a decision. Expenses go beyond just salary, and failing to plan properly can lead to unexpected financial strain.
This guide breaks down all the costs you should expect, from recruitment to monthly expenses, so you can budget accurately.
1. Recruitment costs
The initial expense is usually the recruitment fee, which varies depending on the helper’s country of origin and the agency you use.
Typical range:
- SAR 8,000 to SAR 20,000
This fee usually covers:
- Agency service fees
- Visa processing
- Documentation and paperwork
Helpers from countries like the Philippines may cost more due to stricter regulations and higher demand.
2. Visa and government fees
To legally hire a domestic worker, you must obtain a work visa.
Estimated costs:
- Work visa: ~SAR 2,000
- Medical tests and processing: SAR 500–1,000
These fees may sometimes be included in the recruitment package, but not always so double-check.
3. Monthly salary
Salary depends on nationality, experience, and job scope.
Average monthly salaries:
- SAR 800 – SAR 1,500
For example:
- Entry-level helpers: lower range
- Experienced or specialised (e.g., childcare): higher range
4. Food and accommodation
Employers are responsible for providing:
- Daily meals
- Suitable accommodation
Estimated monthly cost:
- SAR 300 – SAR 800
This varies depending on your household lifestyle.
5. Health insurance
Health insurance is mandatory for domestic helpers in Saudi Arabia.
Estimated annual cost:
- SAR 500 – SAR 1,500
This ensures access to medical care when needed.
6. Annual leave & airfare
Domestic helpers are entitled to:
- Paid annual leave
- A round-trip ticket to their home country (usually every 2 years)
Estimated cost:
- Airfare: SAR 1,500 – SAR 3,000
7. Total estimated cost (First year)
Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Recruitment: SAR 8,000 – 20,000
- Visa & Processing: SAR 2,500 – 3,000
- Salary (12 months): SAR 9,600 – 18,000
- Food & Living: SAR 3,600 – 9,600
- Insurance: SAR 500 – 1,500
Total (First year): SAR 24,200 – 52,100
Hidden or unexpected costs
Be aware of additional expenses such as:
- Replacement fees if the helper leaves early
- Medical emergencies not fully covered by insurance
- Bonuses or gifts during holidays
Hiring a domestic helper in Saudi Arabia is a significant financial commitment, especially in the first year. While the upfront cost may seem high, proper planning and understanding of all expenses can help you manage your budget effectively.
Before proceeding, make sure you:
- Understand all legal requirements
- Work with a reputable agency
- Budget for both expected and unexpected costs
With the right approach, hiring a domestic helper can be a valuable investment in your household’s comfort and productivity.
You might be interested in:
Can You Transfer Sponsorship of a Domestic Worker in Saudi Arabia?
Employer Responsibilities Under Saudi Labor Law
Iqama Process for Domestic Workers in Saudi Arabia: Timeline, Requirements & Costs
Are Medical Tests Required for Domestic Workers in Saudi Arabia?
What to Include in a Domestic Worker Contract in Saudi Arabia
Hiring a domestic helper in Saudi Arabia is a common solution for families who need assistance with household chores, childcare, or elderly care. However, understanding the full cost involved is essential before making a decision. Expenses go beyond just salary, and failing to plan properly can lead to unexpected financial strain.
This guide breaks down all the costs you should expect, from recruitment to monthly expenses, so you can budget accurately.
1. Recruitment costs
The initial expense is usually the recruitment fee, which varies depending on the helper’s country of origin and the agency you use.
Typical range:
- SAR 8,000 to SAR 20,000
This fee usually covers:
- Agency service fees
- Visa processing
- Documentation and paperwork
Helpers from countries like the Philippines may cost more due to stricter regulations and higher demand.
2. Visa and government fees
To legally hire a domestic worker, you must obtain a work visa.
Estimated costs:
- Work visa: ~SAR 2,000
- Medical tests and processing: SAR 500–1,000
These fees may sometimes be included in the recruitment package, but not always so double-check.
3. Monthly salary
Salary depends on nationality, experience, and job scope.
Average monthly salaries:
- SAR 800 – SAR 1,500
For example:
- Entry-level helpers: lower range
- Experienced or specialised (e.g., childcare): higher range
4. Food and accommodation
Employers are responsible for providing:
- Daily meals
- Suitable accommodation
Estimated monthly cost:
- SAR 300 – SAR 800
This varies depending on your household lifestyle.
5. Health insurance
Health insurance is mandatory for domestic helpers in Saudi Arabia.
Estimated annual cost:
- SAR 500 – SAR 1,500
This ensures access to medical care when needed.
6. Annual leave & airfare
Domestic helpers are entitled to:
- Paid annual leave
- A round-trip ticket to their home country (usually every 2 years)
Estimated cost:
- Airfare: SAR 1,500 – SAR 3,000
7. Total estimated cost (First year)
Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Recruitment: SAR 8,000 – 20,000
- Visa & Processing: SAR 2,500 – 3,000
- Salary (12 months): SAR 9,600 – 18,000
- Food & Living: SAR 3,600 – 9,600
- Insurance: SAR 500 – 1,500
Total (First year): SAR 24,200 – 52,100
Hidden or unexpected costs
Be aware of additional expenses such as:
- Replacement fees if the helper leaves early
- Medical emergencies not fully covered by insurance
- Bonuses or gifts during holidays
Hiring a domestic helper in Saudi Arabia is a significant financial commitment, especially in the first year. While the upfront cost may seem high, proper planning and understanding of all expenses can help you manage your budget effectively.
Before proceeding, make sure you:
- Understand all legal requirements
- Work with a reputable agency
- Budget for both expected and unexpected costs
With the right approach, hiring a domestic helper can be a valuable investment in your household’s comfort and productivity.
You might be interested in:
Can You Transfer Sponsorship of a Domestic Worker in Saudi Arabia?
Employer Responsibilities Under Saudi Labor Law
Iqama Process for Domestic Workers in Saudi Arabia: Timeline, Requirements & Costs
Are Medical Tests Required for Domestic Workers in Saudi Arabia?
What to Include in a Domestic Worker Contract in Saudi Arabia