"New GCC contracts 'blessing' for maids, 26 Nov 2014

A move to unify job contracts of domestic helpers in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries by the various labour ministries, was welcomed by embassy officials, migrant workers' rights groups and social workers.

However, recruitment agencies and employers were concerned over the new move.

Labour ministers, on Tuesday, agreed on minimum terms in the contracts of domestic staff in the GCC countries to improve the working conditions of more than 2.4 million foreign maids.

"The new contract entitles domestic workers to a weekly day off, annual leave and the right to live outside their employer's home," said Director-General of Kuwait's Public Manpower Authority Jamal Al Dossari.

It also limits the working day to eight hours...