Saudi Arabia set to introduce labour reforms

After the change in the sponsorship system, foreign employees will be able to change their jobs and leave the country without the consent of the employer.

Under changes to Kafala sponsorship system, foreign workers in private sector will have improved job mobility.

The move is part of the government's drive to create an attractive job market, allowing foreign employees to apply for jobs in government sectors directly with digital paperwork.

The changes under the country's Labour Reform Initiative (LRI) are expected to benefit 10 million foreign workers.

These reforms will help foreign employees gain residency in Saudi Arabia, which is not linked to any particular employer.

In addition, the new reforms allow foreign workers to switch from one company to another. Foreign employees will also be able to travel abroad and return freely. The newly introduced reforms aim to protect the rights of both employers and employees.

On the other hand, foreign employees have expressed happiness over the reforms, saying that it will be easier for them to choose a job.

"This is the best thing I have ever done in Saudi Arabia," said a worker who has lived in Saudi Arabia for five years.

Four years ago, when he wanted to quit his former employer's job and go somewhere else to work, it was very difficult for him and it took many months to solve this problem, he added. "This is a great development and it will help a lot of people."