Saudi Arabia has expanded the number of digital payment channels available for domestic worker salaries to 16, giving employers more ways to pay wages electronically through the Musaned system.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development said the expansion was part of Musaned’s digital developments during the first half of 2026. The goal is to make salary payments easier to document and more transparent for both employers and domestic workers.
16 Payment Channels Now Available
According to the ministry, Musaned has expanded its approved digital salary payment channels to 16.
These channels include participating banks and approved digital wallets connected to the Musaned salary transfer system.
The ministry did not list all 16 channels in the announcement, so workers and employers should check the latest approved options directly through Musaned.
Salary Transfers Are Now Mandatory for All Domestic Workers
Saudi Arabia completed the final phase of mandatory electronic salary transfers on January 1, 2026.
This means all employers of domestic workers are now required to pay salaries electronically through approved banks or digital wallets connected to Musaned.
The system was introduced in stages during 2025 before becoming mandatory for all employers.
How the Salary Transfer Works
The process starts with the domestic worker having a Saudi mobile number linked to their residency permit.
The worker then needs a bank account or digital wallet in their own name.
The employer can use the approved salary transfer service to send the monthly wage electronically.
For digital wallets, the basic process is:
- Link the worker’s mobile number to their Iqama.
- Create a digital wallet account for the worker.
- Open the selected wallet.
- Choose Domestic Worker Salaries.
- Select the worker.
- Confirm the payment.
The payment is then documented through Musaned.
Why Digital Salary Payments Matter
The system creates a clear record showing whether salaries were paid.
This can help protect domestic workers in disputes involving unpaid or delayed wages.
It also protects employers by giving them proof that salary payments were completed.
The ministry said electronic wage payments can also make it easier to handle matters when the employment relationship ends or when the worker leaves Saudi Arabia.
Workers Can Still Withdraw Their Salary as Cash
A worker who prefers cash is not prevented from accessing their money.
HRSD guidance says domestic workers using digital wallets can obtain a card and withdraw their salary from the wallet.
This means the salary is still paid electronically and documented, while the worker can later withdraw it in cash if needed.
Domestic Worker Salary Rules Still Apply
Saudi domestic worker regulations require employers to pay wages monthly.
Salary deductions are also restricted.
Under HRSD rules, total permitted deductions generally cannot exceed one-quarter of the worker’s wage, except where another ruling or official decision applies.
Where to Check the Service
Employers and domestic workers can use the Musaned platform to access salary-related services and view financial transactions.
The salary transfer service itself is listed by HRSD as free of charge.