Kafala System abolished by Saudi Arabia: What was the labour program and how the move benefits migrant workers

Saudi Arabia has officially abolished its decades-old Kafala system, a labour sponsorship model that long governed the lives of millions of migrant workers. The landmark decision, announced in June 2025, marks a major step toward improving labour rights and migrant welfare in the kingdom. The reform is expected to benefit nearly 13 million foreign workers, mostly from South and Southeast Asia.

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