As Saudi Arabia continues its ambitious national development plans under Vision 2030, including a series of “giga-projects” such as NEOM, Qiddiya, and the Red Sea Project, new reports have raised serious concerns regarding the treatment of migrant workers supporting these efforts.
A December 2024 investigation by Human Rights Watch documents troubling patterns of labor exploitation across several of these large-scale construction sites. The report highlights issues such as unpaid wages, high recruitment fees, restrictions on job mobility, and unsafe working conditions—particularly in extreme heat. Many of these workers, primarily from South and Southeast Asia and parts of Africa, are reported to have little recourse when their rights are violated.
While Rights Across Nations (RAN) has not independently verified these claims, we take such reports seriously. Migrant workers form the backbone of many global industries, and their rights—like those of all workers—must be respected and protected. Economic development should go hand-in-hand with dignity, safety, and fairness for those whose labor makes it possible.
We are also mindful of the upcoming 2034 FIFA World Cup, which Saudi Arabia will host. Past global sporting events have sparked scrutiny over labor rights, and we hope this moment will serve as an opportunity to ensure greater transparency, fairness, and protections for all workers involved.
As an organization committed to upholding international human rights standards, RAN believes in the importance of continued dialogue, accountability, and reform. We encourage all stakeholders—governments, international organizations, companies, and civil society—to engage constructively and ensure that development does not come at the expense of basic human dignity.
We will continue to monitor this issue closely and amplify the voices of workers and advocates striving for better conditions.