Kuwait is experiencing a crippling shortage of domestic workers, with more than 30,000 having left the country in 18 months, at an average rate of 55 per day. The reason for this disturbing trend lies in recruitment issues, wage conflicts, and tighter labor policies.
The nation has traditionally depended on local maids, who come mainly from South and Southeast Asia, to maintain the households. Nonetheless, recruitment agencies and employers are finding it challenging to recruit fresh laborers owing to excessive expenses, regulatory constraints, and competition from other Gulf countries that are offering improved inducements.
Several factors, including delayed salary payments, restrictive working conditions, and rising recruitment fees, have led many workers to seek employment elsewhere or return home. The COVID-19 pandemic’s economic impact has also contributed to the decline, with many opting not to return after leaving during lockdowns.
Kuwaiti authorities are currently examining new bilateral arrangements with countries of labor export and reviewing recruitment policies in order to simplify employment procedures. Unless immediate action is taken, however, the shortage will continue to affect households and result in increased costs of services in the domestic labor market.
