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In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A worker told Equidem that his employer initially refused to provide them with masks and only started to do so after an inspection was carried out by state authorities.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
- Sector unknown
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
"In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
An employee of Arabian Fal Co. told Equidem he had returned to Nepal and in the interim during the COVID-19 pandemic his visa period had expired and he was unsure if the company would rehire him. He was owed about $5,000 in bonus."
Companies
Arabian Fal Co.
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
1
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- Nepal
, Oil, gas & coal
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Covid-19
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Sep 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. Workers at petrochemicals giant Saudi Aramco repeatedly reported to Equidem that their employer had failed to renew their iqama (residency permit), without which they could not access health care services. Workers also reported the company deducted salary for taking sick leave and consequently "hundreds" of workers cannot go to the hospital.
Companies
Saudi Aramco
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- India
, Oil, gas & coal
, Gender not reported
)
,
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Oil, gas & coal
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Failing to renew visas
,
Personal Health
,
Covid-19
,
Wage Theft
Action taken: Responded to Equidem but no further action reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Mar 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A Nepalese worker and an Indian worker raised concerns about how they were being protected at work. The Nepalese worker said that they felt the chances of being infected at work were higher than at the camp and that the company had not provided any safety kits like masks, hand wash, or sanitzers. The Indian workers said there had been inadequate preventative measures and no saftey kits like gloves or facemasks.
Companies
Scientific and Technical Services
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
2000
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- India
, Medical equipment/supplies
, Gender not reported
)
,
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Nepal
, Medical equipment/supplies
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Mar 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A Nepal national working in the decoration department at New Vision Construction, said his employer had failed to provide workers with masks or implement social distancing rules. He said, “workers here are scared for their health. There are about 400 workers at my company. The company has not taken any steps to ensure the safety of workers in the pandemic. There is no distancing or protective equipment."
Companies
New Vision Construction
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
400
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Nepal
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Mar 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A Filipino national working as electromechanical contractor at Vector Electromechanical Company, said, “Our employer has not provided us with any hand sanitizers, mask or gloves".
Companies
Vector Electromechanical Co.
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Philippines
, Engineering
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jun 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
One driver for Mowasalat told Equidem the company cut salaries without obtaining workers' agreement to an amount that does not cover food or accommodation.
Companies
Mowasalat
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Transport: General
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Right to Food
,
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Oct 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
Equidem spoke with migrant workers employed by six subcontractors of construction giant Saudi Aramco - their employers had failed to pay wages owed before the pandemic, during or both. In one case 6,000 workers had their salaries cut by 25% and 1,000 were dismissed without obtaining their end-of-service benefits.
Companies
Saudi Aramco
- Client
Other
Not Reported (
Construction
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
6000
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None of the subcontractors replied to Equidem's sharing the findings; Saudi Aramco did provide a response.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Mar 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A worker for Pigeon Engineering Projects (who has worked on FIFA stadiums) said that he had not been paid since March 2020 as he was placed on leave. He can't leave the camp as he has not been paid and he was still not being paid as of the end of October 2020.
Companies
Pigeon Engineering
- Employer
,
FIFA
- Partner
Projects
Qatar World Cup 2022 Unspecified Projects
- Client
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Nepal
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Restricted mobility
,
Wage Theft
,
Freedom of Movement
Action taken: Statement by company in the report explains a lot of action to protect workers but does not engage with the non payment of these workers.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
"In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
Workers with Al Jeraisy Group told Equidem the company fired up to 500 workers and did not grant them owed salary or end-of-service benefits. The workers report they were forced to sign a letter that was only in Arabic - they believe it was a resignation letter. Other workers who remained in the camp at the time were stranded without pay and did not have money to buy food.
One construction worker employed by the company raised concerns regarding the impossibility of social distancing at their labour camp and infection risks of crowded accommodation.
Workers who were returning to their home countries were not provided with PPE, despite being unable to return without them. One worker told Equidem that he had to borrow money from friends to do so."
Action taken: None reported. Al Jeraisy did not respond to the Resource Centre.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. Bazish, a Bangladeshi national working as a Mason at Oaks Build, said he had to borrow money from his friends to be able to buy tickets to go back home after he was left with no job and no money. “I had spent a lot of money to get a job in Qatar,” he explained. “The sub-contractor stopped all construction work after the lockdown. Now I am left with no job and no money. My family is worried about my health. I have to go back even though the flight cost has doubled. I bought the air ticket borrowing some money from my friends. I am worried how I am going to pay the loan back. I have not even recovered from the loan I took to apply for my visa.”
Companies
Oaks Build
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
1
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Bangladesh
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
,
Wage Theft
,
Recruitment Fees
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Apr 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A Nepalese national working as electrician at Gulf Industrial and Marine Services Co. told Equidem, “We are six people staying in same room..." despite the law stating a maximum of 4.
Companies
Gulf Industrial and Marine Services Co. (GIMS)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
1
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Nepal
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Apr 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A cleaner at Puro Cleaning Services, said he was concerned about sharing his room with five other workers. He also said (p96) that he has been on unpaid leave since March and that he will have to take out a loan at high interest rates soon that will take him many months or a year to pay off.
Companies
Puro Cleaning Services
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
1
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Cleaning & maintenance
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Personal Health
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 May 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A welder from Nepal working for Techno Blue WLL, said that even where the number of people sharing a room is limited to four, it had limited effectiveness in preventing people from infecting each other.
Companies
Techno Blue
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Apr 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A worker told Equidem:
"The company does not pay for the treatment. That is why I and other workers pay for medical treatment with our own money. None of us have yet contracted COVID-19, but I am very fearful of it (because) we do not have medical cards (to access the public health system). I don’t know how to get free testing or register for a medical card."
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
- Sector unknown
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A construction worker employed by Bojamhoor Trading & Contracting, recalled the time that some of his co-workers were infected with COVID-19. Even though the company had a doctor on-call on the company premises, he rarely visited the infected workers.
Companies
Bojamhoor Trading & Contracting
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Apr 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A worker for Altrad said it took the company 19 days to quarantine a worker who had tested positive.
Companies
Altrad
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Mar 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. Workers made a number of allegations against Al Darwish. One worker with 18 years service said at the start of lockdown the company sent him home without pay for the last 2 months and final salary benefits. They told him they would pay once he was back in India but have not and are not replying to attempts by the worker to get payment. They report up to 2000 workers had been terminated by the company and most did not get their entitlements. Another worker said: "The situation is very bad here. There is no space to social distance. My friends said that there are 8-10 people in each room right now. There is a line to go to toilets to baths and wash clothes. The food is available from the canteen, which is always crowded, and there is no proper sanitation there". Another worker for Al Darwish Engineering said: "There are about four thousand people living in this camp. When the lockdown first stared, the situation here was very bad. No one followed any social distancing. There were 8-10 people in a room. There are toilets, bathrooms and laundry in one place. It was always crowded. The dining area too was very crowded. The number of people has significantly decreased now since the company fired more than thousand workers." Workers also reported being unable to access medical services one said that workers try never to go to hospital and that if they see a doctor the company deducts a day's pay. If they do see a doctor they are charged for tests even though they have a medical card. The company also failed to provide adequate information to workers. Another said: “The company did not provide us any information on how to avoid infection, what safety measures to take or what to do in case anyone is infected. I feel like the reason I got infected is due to the lack of information."
Companies
Al Darwish Engineering
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- India
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
,
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Dismissal
,
Personal Health
,
Wage Theft
Action taken: None reported - Al Darwish did not respond to the Resource Centre.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker had taken a loan to pay for the recruitment fee he had been charged to come to Dubai.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker said that their company had fired them but had not paid their settlements. He had taken a loan to buy food and essentials which he was unable to pay back.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
- Sector unknown
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Right to Food
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker told Equidem that their company pressured workers to sign their resignation letters. They did not have food enough to eat and he was forced to borrow money from family and friends.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
- Sector unknown
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Right to Food
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Mar 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker told Equidem that Our employer has not provided us with information about how one gets infected with COVID nor how we can be protected from it nor the information about how we can get healthcare. p 93
Companies
Domopan Qatar
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Nepal
, Labour supplier
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Mar 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A Bangladeshi steel worker at Gulf Panel, said his company did not tell him anything about COVID-19 or how to mitigate against being infected by it. He told Equidem, “I am not sure if the company has even made a plan. They would have informed us if they had a plan. All they said to us was to stay in the camp and they will tell us when things get better".
Companies
Gulf Panel
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Bangladesh
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Mar 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One cleaner at Al Baidha Cleaning Co. WLL, said his family is in dire need of help since he has not been able to send them money. He said he works for a manpower supply company and I only get paid when I work assignments,” he explained. “We do not get paid regularly and even then, my salary is not satisfactory. I have borrowed money from friends and have been buying goods on credit."
Companies
Al Baidha Cleaning Co.
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Cleaning & maintenance
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One indian worker at Nasser S. Al-Hajri Company said he had not been able to send money back to his family and he had to take a loan.
Companies
Nasser S. Al-Hajri Corporation (NSH)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
1
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- India
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. On March 16, the owner (of the company) glared at me. He told me to sign a document, he did not explain what it was. After I signed it he said I was terminated. The company discriminated against us. They fired many other workers but did not fire a single Saudi. We did not get any help or money after signing the paper. I neither have money nor accommodation. I am buying food borrowing some money from my friends and relatives. I am living in an old building, which is not build for accommodation purposes. We have to bring water from far away for the building. p 101
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
- Sector unknown
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Right to Food
,
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Dismissal
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A worker in Qatar told Equidem: “my company is not firing Qatari nationals nor workers from the Gulf but is only firing workers of other nationalities. They have sent most of us home." (102)
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
- Sector unknown
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Dismissal
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jun 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A worker in Qatar says that there are different salary scales for workers depending on nationality and that Qatari natationals get paid more for doing the same role. (102)
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
- Sector unknown
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jun 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A Pakistani worker with National Paints Factory in Sharjah, UAE told Equidem that the job uncertainty wrought by COVID-19 and rumours of large planned layoffs exacerbated his anxiety that he had been unable to send any money to his family as the company had not paid him (by June) since April.
Companies
National Paints
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
1
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- Pakistan
, Manufacturing: General
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
Equidem described that many workers cited employers forcing workers to sign agreements without their consent to terminate contracts and send them home while keeping other workers employed but without pay. A cook at an InterContinental Hotel in Dubai told Equidem that workers were notified they would be on unpaid leave. He also said the workers were made to work overtime without rest and full pay.
Companies
IHG Hotels & Resorts
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- Nepal
, Hotel
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 May 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One Pakistani driver with Hunter International Tourism told Equidem the company had fired workers without observing the notice period.
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
Employees of Kiruba Technical Services in Dubai reported to Equidem that they were not paid for five months and 300 were then fired without an end of service settlement. The company allegedly did not provide them with food and workers reported taking loans from family.
Companies
Kiruba Technical Services
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
300
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- India
, Cleaning & maintenance
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Right to Food
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
Employees of Al-Branzee Co. told Equidem they were forced to sign their resignation letters. They had not been paid since the lockdown started.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
- Sector unknown
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
Three workers with ANG Middle East Electromechanical Works told Equidem they had been physically and verbally abused for requesting owed unpaid wages and to dissuade other workers from complaining. One said he had been blacklisted and could not return to Dubai. All three reported that they were not given food. Two said they were fired by the company and one had taken a loan from a friend to pay for an air ticket.
Companies
ANG Middle East
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Violence
,
Intimidation
,
Right to Food
,
Restricted mobility
,
Freedom of Expression
,
Wage Theft
,
Freedom of Movement
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Apr 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker who was a pipe fitter reported his company only paying him half his basic salary and also added that he had heard of other companies where no payment was being made.
Companies
Flying Trading & Contracting
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
One labourer in Dubai told Equidem he was particularly concerned about the potential risk of contracting COVID-19 in his accommodation due to overcrowding and the impossiblity of social distancing. There were workers employed at multiple firms in the labour camp.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Bangladesh
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
,
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- China
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
,
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- India
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
,
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Nepal
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
,
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
,
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Pakistan
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 May 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One driver at Super Limousine Service, said he is paid per task and does not receive a basic salary. When the lockdown was announced in March 2020, his employer stopped paying him. He told Equidem at the height of the lockdown in April: “The situation here is very bad. I am unable to go out due to this lockdown and Covid-19 situation. I have not got money for my expenses. I have not been able to send money to my family for months."
Companies
Super Limousine Service
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
1
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- India
, Transport: General
, Gender not reported
)
,
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Transport: General
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker described living in extremely cramped living conditions where they were unable to socially distance and are all "at health risk".
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
- Sector unknown
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker described living in extremely cramped living conditions where, despite being given masks and sanitiser by their company, they were unable to socially distance.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
100
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
- Sector unknown
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker described living in extremely cramped living conditions impacting 3,000 workers in the labour camp - 80 people were sharing one toilet and kitchen and social distancing is an impossibility.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
3000
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
- Sector unknown
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Mar 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One Nepalese national working as a cleaner at Offroad Group WLL said that he and his colleagues were not able to negotiate with their employer about whether to take unpaid leave or not despite the Qatar legal requirement, and that he had been left without money for himself and to send home to family.
Companies
Offroad Group
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Nepal
, Cleaning & maintenance
, Gender not reported
)
Action taken: None reported. Offroad did not respond to the Resource Centre's request for comment.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A worker told Equidem: "We were stuck at the camp throughout the lockdown. We could only go to the next-door room. We were not permitted to go outside the camp. There are 12 rooms in total, where 400 workers are living. In our room, there were 20 people including me."
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
- Sector unknown
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Restricted mobility
,
Personal Health
,
Covid-19
,
Freedom of Movement
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A Bangladeshi national working as a construction labourer at Alahad Group, said he was worried about the loan he had to obtain after he lost his income. I had to spent 350,000 Taka ($4,133) for my visa. I did not have such a huge amount, so I borrowed all this money from my relative. Due to irregular payments, I have not been able to pay the loan. My family is overburdened with loan and we are all worried.
Companies
Alahad
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
1
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Bangladesh
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
,
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- India
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Recruitment Fees
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Apr 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A labourer at Doha Mountain Trading & Contracting WLL, said his employer was accommodating as many as eight people in one room despite government regulation that stipulates no more than four people can be housed together.
Companies
Doha Mountain Trading & Contracting
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Nepal
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A carpenter at Al Mukhtar Contracting & Trading Co. said hundreds of workers had been fired and sent back to their countries of origin without their full salary entitlements including end of service benefits. An Indian national working as a carpenter for Al Mukhtar Contracting & Trading Co. WLL.said he was worried about his family and fears he might lose the land he had mortgaged to pay recruitment fee. He added: "My contract was for 9 months but the company said they will renew it. He said: "I agreed for QAR 1,500 ($412) but I got only QAR 1,000 ($274) a month. The recruitment agency deceived me in this too. I am very upset seeing my family in a situation like this."
Companies
Al Mukhtar Contracting & Engineering
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
100
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- India
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Action taken: None reported. Al Mukhtar's response to the Resource Centre is available to read in full.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Mar 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A construction worker, said he was aware that medical treatment was available for migrant workers free of charge, yet he had no idea how to access testing centres or seek medical care. He said: “I have absolutely no idea how to access healthcare and services, who to contact for information or help, and how we will be taken care of".
Other
Not Reported (
Construction
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. Karan, a duct installer who was nearing the end of his contract. “I want to go home but I do not have money to buy plane tickets. The company has not paid my end of service settlement and remaining salary. I am worried that I will not be able to go home to my family".
Other
Not Reported (
Construction
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
1
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Restricted mobility
,
Wage Theft
,
Freedom of Movement
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Sep 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. Harsh, an Indian construction worker, said he was scared to go back to work because of the risk of getting infected but the company insisted that we go back to work. He said: "We did not have any safety kits like masks or sanitizers. The company did not even provide masks."
Other
Not Reported (
Construction
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Apr 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker from Nepal told Equidem that he had not received any information from his company about COVID-19.
Other
Not Reported (
Construction
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 May 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
One worker with a Dubai IT company told Equidem they had received no help from the company or government even though they repeatedly contacted the company about a lack of food and water. The worker had not received information about salaries or benefits either.
Other
Not Reported (
Technology, telecom & electronics
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- India
, Software & Services
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Right to Food
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 May 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
Workers employed as valet drivers in Dubai said when their visas expired in April their employer refused to renew it and said workers were told they had to sign consent to go home otherwise the company would not provide them with food.
Other
Not Reported (
Transport: General
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
1
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- India
, Transport: General
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Intimidation
,
Right to Food
,
Failing to renew visas
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Apr 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker at Dubai International Airport was placed on leave in March but was the pressured by his employer to return to work, despite a large number of airport employees testing positive for the virus. He was otherwise faced with being terminated from work
Other
Not Reported (
Transport: General
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
1
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- India
, Transport: General
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Intimidation
,
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Mar 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker at a construction company reported poor and cramped living conditions to Equidem; he was concerned about the high COVID-19 transmission risk.
Other
Not Reported (
Construction
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 May 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One IT worker in Abu Dhabi told Equidem he was sharing a room with seven other people, all of whom lost their jobs when visas were not renewed. Workers in the accommodation suffered a "wave" of infections.
Other
Not Reported (
Software & Services
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Software & Services
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Failing to renew visas
,
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Sep 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One construction worker in Dubai told Equidem that the industry does not have capacity to accommodate workers properly during the pandemic and ensure patients are kept in isolation. He was living in rooms with between 10 and 15 people in each.
Other
Not Reported (
Construction
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Apr 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. Workers at Transguard reported allegations that follow earlier reporting by Migrant-Rights including withheld salaries, verbal mistreatment, end-of-service deductions, deductions for food and insufficient food. The company reportedly did not conduct contractual changes in the proper manner.
One worker also described discrimination Transguard practiced against workers in terms of pay differentials between nationals and non-nationals.
In April 2021, it was announced that Transguard had signed a framework agreement with the German Pavilion to provide security, cleaning and laundry services during the Dubai Expo. The Resource Centre invited Koelnmesse, the company contracted to organise and run the German Pavilion to set out the human rights due diligence process it undertook prior to contracting Transguard, and to disclose any findings or steps it took to ensure the issues were addressed satisfactorily. The response provided by Koelnmesse’s did not address the request to disclose their due diligence process. The Resource Centre also invited the German Emirati Joint Council for Industry & Commerce to do the same; they provided a response.
Companies
Transguard
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- India
, Security companies
, Gender not reported
)
,
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Nepal
, Security companies
, Gender not reported
)
,
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Pakistan
, Security companies
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Intimidation
,
Right to Food
,
Restricted mobility
,
Wage Theft
,
Freedom of Movement
Response
Response sought: Yes, by Equidem
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Mar 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A Nepalese national working as a labourer at Imar Trading and Contracting, said that his employer had failed to take even the most basic preventative measures to reduce COVID-19 infection at their workplaces. He told Equidem, “The company has not given us workers the basic essentials such as masks and hand sanitizers. "It is an essential tool to prevent spreading the infection" he said. Staff of Imar Trading and Contracting also told Equidem that their employer had not provided any information about the virus. A laundry cleaner said: “No one has explained what COVID-19 is and how to reduce the risk of infection. I have got information on my own by searching the internet or through social media,”
Companies
Imar Trading & Contracting
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Nepal
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Action taken: None reported. Imar's response to the Resource Centre can be read in full.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Apr 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A security and occupational consultant said that his employer was ignoring basic health and hygiene measures and self service in the dinner hall was the worst as everyone was using the same serving spoon. p87
Other
Not Reported (
Security companies
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
550
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Security companies
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Aug 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. An Indian national for DHL Qatar said he was being made to work up to 18 hours a day without being paid for overtime.
Companies
DHL (part of Deutsche Post)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
1
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- India
, Express delivery
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: Yes, by Equidem
Action taken: None reported. The company employing workers at DHL Qatar, Danzas AEI Emirates, provided a response to Equidem, refuting the allegations.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker described living in extremely cramped living conditions impacting 500 workers in the camp; social distancing was impossible.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
500
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
- Sector unknown
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker described living in extremely cramped living conditions. People do not follow social distancing measures and the company did not provide sanitisers or masks.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
450
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
- Sector unknown
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker for Spring International Trading & Contracting WLL, working as a duct installer said that they got fired because of the lockdown, did not get their end of service settlement and was reliant on charity for accomodation and food.
Companies
Spring International Trading and Contracting
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
1
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Right to Food
,
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: News outlet
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker described living in extremely cramped living conditions provided by the hotel where they worked. Living with 10 people in one room it was impossible to social distance.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
10
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Hotel
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker described how there were 2,000 workers in his labour camp and consequently a significant amount of crowding but the company had "done nothing to control the crowd or manage it in any way".
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
2000
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
- Sector unknown
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker reported that the company deducts workers' salary if they take sick leave.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
- Sector unknown
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker reported that the company does not give medical leave and deducts salary if workers take sick leave.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
- Sector unknown
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker told Equidem that he had to pay a "requirement fee" for which he had to take out a loan. Without income he was struggling to pay back the loan or buy food.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A Nepalese national working for Moustafa Mohmoud Service Contracting and Hospitality (a hospitality labour supply company) reported that she has been subject to verbal abuse after she quit over poor working conditions. She says that the employer has to provide accomodation under the law but are abusing her to get her to leave.
Companies
Moustafa Mohmoud Service Contracting & Hospitality
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
1
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Nepal
, Hospitality
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Intimidation
,
Right to Food
,
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 May 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A security guard was told by his employer that he will only be paid for the days he works and that when work resumes, his salary would be reduced by twenty percent. He told Equidem that his colleagues had been told the same thing. p89
Other
Not Reported (
Security companies
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Security companies
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 May 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A group of Nepalese domestic workers employed by a labour supplier and attending domestic work during the day and sleeping in a camp said their contracts were cancelled when they refused to move in with families during COVID-19. They said the boss made them sign a contract saying they agree to terminate their salaries straight away. They are now homeless after leaving the camp and did not recieve the monies owed under their contract. p85
Other
Not Reported (
Labour supplier
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Nepal
, Domestic worker agencies
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Intimidation
,
Right to Food
,
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Dismissal
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Mar 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A taxi driver from Kenya said when the lockdown started they did not get proper rations and he has become used to feeling hungry even now when he has work.
Other
Not Reported (
Transport: General
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
1
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Kenya
, Transport: General
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Right to Food
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Apr 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A painter reported not being paid for 52 days and not getting any food allowance. His employer has 4000-5000 workers he said and they are all suffering with this problem. p 84
Other
Not Reported (
Construction
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
4000
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- India
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Right to Food
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Apr 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A worker reported being made homeless after his employer evicted him from the accomodation after the cafe he worked in was to be closed due to COVID-19
Other
Not Reported (
Catering & food services
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Catering & food services
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Oct 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
One worker at Abu Dhabi National Oil Co. (ADNOC) reported that management had told workers they would receive owed salaries and benefits before returning home, but only those who signed the resignation. Months later 200 workers werestill waiting for payments.
One worker told Equidem many workers had been infected with COVID-19 and some died; he stated that worker were stuck without access to medical facilities and some had to ask for money to be sent from their home countries to buy medicines. The company reportedly did not look after workers who had resigned and they were unable to go to hospital because their visas had expired.
The company also stopped renewing workers' health cards after the lockdown.
Companies
Abu Dhabi National Oil Co
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
200
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- India
, Oil, gas & coal
, Gender not reported
)
,
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Oil, gas & coal
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Restricted mobility
,
Failing to renew visas
,
Personal Health
,
Covid-19
,
Wage Theft
,
Freedom of Movement
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 May 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One Filipino beautician was dismissed and only received half a months pay and no further support not even food as required under the government directives.
Other
Not Reported (
Hairdressing & beauticians
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
1
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Philippines
, Hairdressing & beauticians
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Right to Food
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker described living in a room of 12 in a camp of 500 people. He attributed fast transmission of COVID-19 through the camp to the impossibility of social distancing; hundreds of workers were infected. The company reportedly did not provide information on health, safety and COVID-19 to workers, nor did it provide any PPE.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
500
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
- Sector unknown
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Personal Health
,
Covid-19
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker described that the company had a general rule where workers' salaries were deducted for a day's absence, even if sick.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
- Sector unknown
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker described that the company required workers to pay a fee when applying for sick leave which was otherwise deducted from their salary. If they did not pay workers were harassed.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
- Sector unknown
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Intimidation
,
Personal Health
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. Thousands of workers at one company reportedly did not have access to health care facilities because their iqama (residency) expired. They were disouraged from attending hospitality because their salaries would have been deducted for leave. The company also withheld workers' passports.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
- Sector unknown
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Failing to renew visas
,
Retention of identity documents
,
Personal Health
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Apr 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker told Equidem that their company deducts a day's salary if worker's take sick leave.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
- Sector unknown
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Apr 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. Equidem documented one particularly serious case where an Indian worker died after his employer stopped paying wages. His family reported that he had said workers did not have food or money to buy it. He did not have money to buy medicines and despite asking the company to arrange food and medicine, the company did nothing. The family also tried to contact the company but the worker died.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
1
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- India
- Sector unknown
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Right to Food
,
Deaths
,
Personal Health
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Apr 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker told Equidem he had paid the equivalent of USD1,264 in recruitment fees to come to Dubai and had had to borrow money from relatives.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
Equidem spoke with migrant workers employed by six subcontractors of construction giant Saudi Aramco - their employers had failed to pay wages owed before the pandemic, during or both. In one case, an employee of Azmeel Contracting Co. reported that he had not been paid since February 2020 and lockdown and had been forced to take a loan. Even after work started back up workers were waiting on wages. More than 1,000 workers had reportedly been fired and had not received any payment.
Another worker told Equidem that they had not been paid a food allowance while stranded a their labour camp and they could not afford sufficient food.
Another told Equidem that his iqama (residency permit) has been expired for over a year; 3,000 other people from the company in the same labour camp also have an expired permit meaning they live like "bonded laborers". They consequently cannot access the public health system. One worker reported that he had to borrow money from relatives to afford medicine.
Companies
Azmeel Contracting and Construction Corporation
- Employer
,
Saudi Aramco
- Client
Affected
Total individuals affected:
3000
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Right to Food
,
Failing to renew visas
,
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Wage Theft
,
Personal Health
Action taken: None of the subcontractors replied to Equidem's sharing the findings; Saudi Aramco did provide a response. Azmeel did not respond to the Resource Centre's invitation for them to provide a response.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. A Bangladeshi national at World Cup contractor Rise and Shine Group in Qatar reported that the company physically abuses workers. He reported an incident where a worker was taken to the hospital only after workers demanded it but the worker was docked pay for those days. The worker that was beaten also provided testimony and commented in addition that the company does not pay overtime payments. Another worker of the Rise and Shine Group said that his friend was taken to the hospital 4 days after testing positive for COVID and he heard that he died but the boss said that it was his diabetes and breathing problems that caused his death. He said that 9 people in his camp showed symptoms but they did not get treatment and were not isolated. There were also allegations of a lack of PPE. A Bangladeshi national, Rifat, said: "after the works resumed, they (manager/ employer) provided us with masks for the first two/ three days. Later they asked us to manage masks on our own. We replied how could we manage that. We are not even allowed to go to the market. They said, ‘if needed, use your cloths." In another part of the report the same worker (seemingly) said: “112 workers are living in 3 rooms. How do I move around and maintain social distancing?"
Companies
Rise & Shine Group
- Employer
,
FIFA
- Partner
Projects
Al Bayt Stadium
- Client
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Bangladesh
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Deaths
,
Violence
,
Intimidation
,
Injuries
,
Personal Health
,
Wage Theft
Action taken: The Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy addressed the allegations in a statement. Rise & Shine did not respond to the Resource Centre. FIFA did provide a response.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
Workers from Alodood Contracting Co. reported that the company had stopped paying workers since the lockdown was announced - at the time of the interview workers had been without pay for three months, but even after work resumed workers did not receive salary. At least one worker interviewed did not have money to buy food and was forced to borrow money from friends to buy basics. The company allegedly sent workers home without salary or other benefits.
The worker also reported concerns to Equidem regarding the impossibility of practising social distancing in a crowded labour accommodation. While the company did provide information for workers on COVID-19 and infection risk, they failed to provide masks, gloves and sanitizers, despite promising too. The company said that workers without equipment would not be allowed to work and workers had to buy their own.
Companies
Alodood Contracting Co.
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Personal Health
,
Wage Theft
Action taken: None reported. The Resource Centre invited Alodood to provide a response; they did not.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jun 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One salesman in Burj Khalifa, Dubai told Equidem he is very anxious because of the impossibility of social distancing in his room and that his company was not paying salaries for un-worked days. He also told Equidem that he took a loan to help his family and is managing food, accommodation and other expenses for a roommate who does not have a job.
Other
Not Reported (
Retail
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Retail
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Personal Health
,
Covid-19
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One hotel worker told Equidem the hotel had a policy of reducing pay if workers took leave - whether or not because they were sick.
Other
Not Reported (
Hotel
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Hotel
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jun 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker told Equidem he had not been paid since March and had been unable to send money home to support his parents.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
In this case a Nepalese worker at Basamh Trading Co. described that his employer had not discussed option for altering his conditions of employment as per COVID labour directives.
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
In this case a Kenyan medical engineer at Swan Global reported not recieving his salary from his employer and states many workers have this issue.
Companies
Swan Global
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Africa
, Health and social care
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Mar 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
A filing clerk with Al Sharif Group Holding reported the company had not informed employees of changes to their salary as per changes to labour law in the context of COVID. At the time of writing they had not received payment since the start of the lockdown.
He also reported that the company had not communicated anything relating to COVID-19 or treatment options with employees.
Companies
Al Sharif
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- Bangladesh
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Apr 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
A driver with Mansour Al Mosaid Group reported that employees were forced to agree to salary cuts of 30% permitted by changes to labour law under COVID-19, but only with employees' permission. While the worker provided accommodation the money that they provide for food was reportedly insufficient.
Companies
Mansour Al Mosaid
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Right to Food
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 May 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
A driver for one company told Equidem that workers in his company had not received salaries since Deceber 2019, prior to the pandemic. They frequently received two months' worth of salary together.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Transport: General
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
A worker at DHL in Dubai told Equidem he did not get paid for the duration of the lockdown, only for the days they worked and he did not get paid for April or May. He also reported that 93 workers contracted COVID-19; they were isolated and the rest of the workers were advised to socially distance. The worker reported that the number of people in the camp (600) meant that they were unable to do so.
Action taken: Equidem wrote to DHL to invite them to address concerns raised; a response was received from DANZAS AEI Emirates, who employs the DHL workers.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Mar 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. In this case a worker said he had not been paid since March 2020 and was worried about supporting his family back home.
Companies
Manforce Trading & Contracting
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
1
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Cleaning & maintenance
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Mar 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
A Nepalese real estate officer in Al Khobar told Equidem that his company had not communicated to the employees whether they would be paid during lockdown despite their office remaining open. Subsequently, the workers reported that they were not paid.
The worker also told Equidem that workers did not have much information on the pandemic and how to keep themselves and others safe by reducing infection risk. He also said the company did not provide workers with masks.
Other
Not Reported (
Real estate: General
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- Nepal
, Real estate: General
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Apr 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
A painter with real estate company Al-Sayyar reported that he and his co-workers had not received salaries for over two months prior to the first case of COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia (January 2020). He also told Equidem that the company did "not allow workers to be treated properly" and blamed the workers for the spread of the disease. Workers had to resort to buying medicines with their own money.
Another worker reported that "there is a crisis for food"; workers were told the company would provide food but the quality is poor.
Companies
Al Sayyar
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- India
, Real estate: General
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Right to Food
,
Personal Health
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. An Indian national working as a steel and glass fixer told Equidem his company had forced him to sign a document terminating his employment. He was not told what it was and stated that only non-Saudi workers were fired. He did not have money for accommodation and was forced to borrow money from friends and relatives while staying in poor housing without access to water and food. He stated he already has a huge debt only increasing with interest.
He also said that while he had COVID-19 symptoms he was not tested and had to buy medicine with his own money despite calling for a government ambulance.
Other
Not Reported (
Construction
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- India
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Right to Food
,
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jun 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
In one case, workers at Shirka Majmua Zayed Al Hassan Construction were allegedly made to sign to agree to contract terminations at any time. They received their salary late and were not paid for the time period they were not at work.
Companies
Shirka Majmua Zayed Al Hassan Construction
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- Pakistan
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Dismissal
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 May 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. In this case a worker reported she was made to sign a paper saying she was willing to be placed on unpaid leave. She reported that the company threatened her with the police if she did not sign the document. Another or the same worker also told Equidem “the last payment I received was QAR 100 ($25) as food allowance in February 2020. She said the manager told her that they could no longer pay workers because their contract was cancelled". p 77
Companies
Italiano Hospitality & Cleaning
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Cleaning & maintenance
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Intimidation
,
Dismissal
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Mar 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. In this case the worker reports that he is worried that he will not get money that is owed to him by his employer under the government directives.
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. Construction company Future Solutions reportedly had not been paying workers adequately. In this case the worker (a scaffolder) at Future Solutions reports that some workers are getting full basic salary, some are getting half, and some are not getting paid at all. He says he is worried that he will not get money that is owed to him under the government directives.
Companies
Future Solutions
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- Nepal
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
Workers at Aswar Aseer Group told Equidem they had not received wages for up to five months despite continuing to work regular hours. They were subject to physical abuse (not for the first time) when they asked for their wages with workers fearing reprisals for speaking out. One worker stated he would like to return home but was unable to do so without receiving his pay. Workers also reported being made to work overtime without pay.
One worker reported that the company did not provide workers with PPE despite saying that only workers who had it would be allowed to work; workers had to buy it with their own money.
Companies
Aswar Aseer
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Violence
,
Intimidation
,
Restricted mobility
,
Freedom of Expression
,
Personal Health
,
Wage Theft
,
Freedom of Movement
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
One worker on an Aramco subcontractor described extremely crowded accommodation at his labour camp which did not permit for social distancing.
Companies
Saudi Aramco
- Client
Other
Not Reported (
Construction
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Apr 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker at Al-Ariad Sweet Corner told Equidem that 50-60 workers who had returned home prior to the COVID crisis were terminated unilaterally from their jobs and would not be paid as they were not allowed back into the country.
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker told Equidem that their company had told workers they had to buy masks and sanitizers against COVID-19 themselves otherwise they could not work.
Other
Not Reported (
Construction
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker at a Saudi Aramco subcontractor told Equidem that the company would not allow workers to work without PPE but did not provide it for them; workers had to buy it themselves.
Companies
Saudi Aramco
- Client
Other
Not Reported (
Construction
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- India
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
A worker at an unnamed company told Equidem that their employer did not provide safety equipment, despite the fact they were constantly at risk of infection and worked throughout the lockdown. On asking for equipment, they were threatened with dismissal.
Other
Not Reported (
Cleaning & maintenance
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Cleaning & maintenance
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Intimidation
,
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Apr 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. An Indian national working as a salesman told Equidem he was unsure what to do if he was tested for COVID-19 and was not aware of the government announcement all migrant workers who contracted COVID-19 would receive free health care. He also said that workers ar his company were buying medicines with their own money.
Other
Not Reported (
Retail
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- India
, Retail
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Apr 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. The wife of one Indian national who had been working as a driver told Equidem that her husband was unable to access medical care after displaying COVID-19 symptoms for two weeks. They were refused admission at a private hospital as they could not pay. He tested positive the day before his death; his death certificate states cause of death to be cardiac arrest. Nine of his co-workers were reportedly unable to get a COVID-19 test despite also displaying symptoms.
Other
Not Reported (
Transport: General
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
1
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- India
, Transport: General
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Deaths
,
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 May 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker at an Abu Dhabi restaurant told Equidem he had not been paid since February although he and his co-workers contined to work in the hope they would be paid. The company told the workers they would pay 70% salaries and "made" them sign a paper.; they did not pay wages.
Other
Not Reported (
Catering & food services
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Catering & food services
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. In this case a worker at Rekaz Al Khaleej in Riyadh told Equidem that his company forced him to sign a document that his salary and benefits had been paid before firing him. He did not have money to buy food.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- India
, Cleaning & maintenance
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Right to Food
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. Equidem documented the case of a Filipino worker in an unnamed company who committed suicide. His co-workers claimed this was linked to pressure and anxiety caused by his unnamed employer failing to pay their salaries during the lockdown period.
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
One worker at Aramco subcontractor Kass International Contracting Co. told Equidem he had only received 10% of his salary during the lockdown period but that the company had been paying their salaries irregularly for two years.
Companies
Saudi Aramco
- Other Value Chain Entity
,
Kass International
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- India
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Action taken: None reported. Kass International did not respond to the Resource Centre's request for comment.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jun 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One driver at Fancy Transport told Equidem he had not received wages since March and the company had neglected workers. One worker who was a diabetes patient reported that he did not have enough money for his health expenses.
Companies
Fancy Transport
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Transport: General
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Personal Health
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
Five workers at Industrial Technology Services Middle East spoke to Equidem, alleging they were pressured either to resign with an end of service settlement or be terminated without final salaries or end of service benefits. Workers requested the company only reduce pay but were effectively forced to resign. They did not receive outstanding salaries and allowances and were stranded in the country with no help from their company. Many have now returned to their home countries and still have not received what is owed to them. One worker said that thousands of workers were fired without receiving any kind of payment.
Companies
Abu Dhabi National Oil Co. (ADNOC)
- Unknown
,
Industrial Technology Services Middle East
- Unknown
Affected
Total individuals affected:
300
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- India
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
,
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Restricted mobility
,
Personal Health
,
Wage Theft
,
Freedom of Movement
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: At least one worker had contacted their embassy without receiving assistance. Subsequently he and about 300 other workers complained to the Dubai police, after which the company agreed to send him back home. Workers had to arrange air tickets and PPE themselves.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
A worker at Aramco subcontractor International Recruitment Co. told Equidem that they were reliant on their personal network for housing and food after the company stopped paying him and did not provide him with food when they terminated him. He took a loan from relatives and is staying with a relative. Other workers reportedly did not receive their end of service benefit.
Another worker also reported that workers did not have sufficient protective equipment and were working in dangerous conditions in a gas plant; workers were unable to access healthcare facilities because their iqamas (residency permits) had expired and the company did not renew it. He also recounted being physically abused at the company and that the company had confiscated his passport.
Companies
International Recruitment Co.
- Employer
,
Saudi Aramco
- Client
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Labour supplier
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Right to Food
,
Failing to renew visas
,
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Retention of identity documents
,
Violence
,
Personal Health
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: Yes, by Equidem
Action taken: The worker repeatedly contacted the company office but the company refused to pay him.
None of the subcontractors replied to Equidem's sharing the findings; Saudi Aramco did provide a response.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
Equidem spoke with migrant workers employed by six subcontractors of construction giant Saudi Aramco - their employers had failed to pay wages owed before the pandemic, during or both. In one case, employees of A.S. Alsayed Company told Equidem employees worked throughout the pandemic and still had not been paid. One worker had not been paid since February 2020. Some were fired without payment. Many of the "hundreds" of workers affected did not have enough money for food.
Companies
A S Alsayed and Partners Contracting Co.
- Employer
,
Saudi Aramco
- Client
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
4
- India
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Action taken: Workers repeatedly took strike action to demand their wages; representatives of the company and Saudi Aramco repeatedly promised wages which subsequently failed to be paid.
None of the subcontractors replied to Equidem's sharing the findings; Saudi Aramco did provide a response.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jun 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker reported not being paid since March 2020 and that the company had also failed to pay for their food and was only sometimes paying rent as required under the law.
Other
Not Reported (
Cleaning & maintenance
)
- Employer
Right to Food
,
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Mar 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. In this case a worker told Equidem he had not been paid since March 2020 and that although the government had told employers to pay workers his employer had been silent on this (p76).
Other
Not Reported (
Sector not reported/applicable
)
- Employer
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
Workers with Dubai Expo contractor Al Naboodah told Equidem the company fired newly hired workers who subsequently had to self-finance shared accommodation.
Companies
Al Naboodah Construction Group (ANGC)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- Pakistan
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Action taken: Equidem wrote to the Dubai Expo with their findings; the Dubai Expo committee did provide a response. Al Naboodah did respond to the Resource Centre invitation for a response.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
Equidem spoke with migrant workers employed by six subcontractors of construction giant Saudi Aramco - their employers had failed to pay wages owed before the pandemic, during or both. In one case, employees of Al Rashid Co. reported that the company fired workers for asking for their salary and did not pay either owed salary or benefit. Workers felt afraid to say anything to their employers and reported barely having enough money for food.
The worker did report that the company gave workers information on infection control but did not provide workers with safety kits including masks which they had to buy with their own money.
Companies
Al Rashid Trading & Contracting
- Employer
,
Saudi Aramco
- Client
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Intimidation
,
Wage Theft
,
Right to Food
,
Dismissal
,
Personal Health
Action taken: None of the subcontractors replied to Equidem's sharing the findings; Saudi Aramco did provide a response. The Resource Centre also invited Al Rashid to respond to the report; they did not.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One worker at Civil Works Co. told Equidem that he contined to work throughout the lockdown period but his company only paid him half his salary. Workers' visas were cancelled and Indian workers were repatriated despite their contract period being ongoing. Workers were made to sign a document that was not explained to them and their contracts were subsequently terminated without workers being paid salaries or end-of-service benefits. Workers reported being reliant on borrowing money from friends and family to buy food. Another worker told Equidem that because his employer had failed to renew iqama (work permits), workers were unable to access the public health system and workers had to buy their own medicine. The company also reportedly deducted salary from workers who took leave.
Companies
Civil Works Co.
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
1
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Cleaning & maintenance
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Right to Food
,
Failing to renew visas
,
Wage Theft
,
Personal Health
Action taken: None reported. Civil Works Co. did not respond to the Resource Centre.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Sep 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
Equidem spoke with migrant workers employed by six subcontractors of construction giant Saudi Aramco - their employers had failed to pay wages owed before the pandemic, during or both. In one case, workers employed by subcontractor Badr H. Al-Hussaini & Sons Co. reported that their employer does not pay wages on time - workers are waiting on salary from as far back as 2014 with no explanation. They also reported that the company will not grant no objection certificates and have withheld workers' salaries and vacation pay so that they are unable to take holiday and see family.
Another worker told Equidem that the company only renewed workers' iqamas (residency permits) every 3-4 years; they last expired in December 2019. Without iqamas workers are unable to access the health system, transfer money home or leave the country. They are also afraid to leave the labour camp in case police arrest them.
Companies
Bader H. Al-Hussaini & Sons
- Employer
,
Saudi Aramco
- Client
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
2
- India
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Failing to renew visas
,
Restricted mobility
,
Wage Theft
,
Freedom of Movement
,
Personal Health
Action taken: The worker had taken his case to the labour court with no progress and said "the Court is not settling the issue because of my language barrier."
None of the subcontractors replied to Equidem's sharing the findings; Saudi Aramco did provide a response. The Resource Centre also approached Bader H. Al-Hussaini & Sons for response; they did not respond.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
Equidem spoke with migrant workers employed by six subcontractors of construction giant Saudi Aramco - their employers had failed to pay wages owed before the pandemic, during or both. In one case, an employee of National Recruitment Company of Saudi Arabia, (NATREC) told Equidem they had not been paid since January 2020 and that when employees asked for wages they were threatened by the company if they spoke out. The company also fired employees without granting their owed wages or end-of-service benefits and that workers had insufficient food. One worker who worked throughout the lockdown said workers felt threatened by the possibility the company could bring an absconding case against them if they complained.
Another worker told Equidem their iqama (residency permit) had expired at the beginning of 2020 meaning they cannot access the public health system. During the lockdown he and many others fell ill but were unable to go to the hospital and the company reduced salaries for taking sick leave. One worker with an expired iqama told Equidem that the company had taken his pasport.
Workers also raised fears of a lack of social distancing, citing crowded conditions of hundreds of people in one building and 250 people sharing one kitchen.
One Bangladeshi worker reportedly committeed suicide; a co-worker attributed the cause to stress and anxiety directly linked to the fact the company did not pay wages.
Companies
National Recruitment Co. (NATREC)
- Employer
,
Saudi Aramco
- Client
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- Bangladesh
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
,
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- India
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
,
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Deaths
,
Intimidation
,
Right to Food
,
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Retention of identity documents
,
Freedom of Expression
,
Personal Health
,
Wage Theft
,
Failing to renew visas
Action taken: None of the subcontractors replied to Equidem's sharing the findings; Saudi Aramco did provide a response. At least one worker contacted his embassy who took no action. The Resource Centre invited NATREC to respond; it did not.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
Workers with Dubai Expo subcontractor JML (UAE) LLC told Equidem that workers had not received salary since the start of 2020 despite being told they would be paid. They also said the food allowance given during the pandemic was insufficient and that it would be deducted from workers' salary when they resumed work. One worker told Equidem over 100 workers did not receive their end of service settlements when the company fired them. The company did not provide return tickets home.
Companies
JML Facades
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
100
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- India
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Right to Food
,
Restricted mobility
,
Wage Theft
,
Freedom of Movement
Action taken: Equidem wrote to the Dubai Expo with their findings; the Dubai Expo committee did provide a response. JML did not respond to the Resource Centre invitation for a response.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jun 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
Workers with Dubai Expo contractor Ghantoot told Equidem 1,800 workers were without food as their catering company had stopped delievering, allegedly due to lack of payments from Ghantoot. Workers also stated they were owed outstanding salary and that the company fired half its workers after the start of the lockdown, with none of them paid salary or benefits. Those who wanted to return home were not provided with air tickets.
Companies
Ghantoot Gulf Contracting
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
1800
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Location unknown
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Restricted mobility
,
Right to Food
,
Wage Theft
,
Freedom of Movement
Action taken: Equidem wrote to the Dubai Expo with their findings; the Dubai Expo committee did provide a response. Ghantoot did not respond to the Resource Centre invitation for a response.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Mar 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
Workers at Toyota Co. in Dubai reported a range of labour abuses to Equidem including sudden cuts to salaries and withheld wages even after work resumed. Workers reported being unable to pay off debts and being forced to move into cramped accommodation due to unaffordable rent cost.
Companies
Toyota
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- India
, Automobile & other motor vehicles
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Wage Theft
Action taken: None reported. Toyota did not respond to the Resource Centre's invitation to respond to the allegations.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 May 2020
Location:
United Arab Emirates
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. One construction worker in Dubai told Equidem that he had concerns regarding the spread of COVID-19 among workers living in close proximity with each other who were unable to social distance.
Other
Not Reported (
Construction
)
- Employer
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- India
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Precarious/Unsuitable Living Conditions
,
Personal Health
Response
Response sought: No
Action taken: None reported.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Jul 2020
Location:
Saudi Arabia
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers.
Equidem spoke with migrant workers employed by six subcontractors of construction giant Saudi Aramco - their employers had failed to pay wages owed before the pandemic, during or both. In one case, a worker at subcontractor M.S. Al-Suwaidi Holding Co. reportedly had not been paid since March 2020. Employees were told they would be paid 50% of their salary but had yet to receive it by July. Workers also reported being forced either to sign a document afreeing to unpaid leave or be terminated. If they refused workers' contracts were terminated immediately and the company had not confirmed whether they would pay salaries on completed work or end-of-service benefits; about 400 workers were affected this way.
The worker also stated that the company was denying his release of employment letter and he did not know when he could return to his home country.
Companies
M.S. Al-Suwaidi Holding
- Employer
,
Saudi Aramco
- Client
Affected
Total individuals affected:
400
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
1
- Nepal
, Construction
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Restricted mobility
,
Wage Theft
,
Freedom of Movement
Response
Response sought: Yes, by NGO
Action taken: None of the subcontractors replied to Equidem's sharing the findings; Saudi Aramco did provide a response.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Sep 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. In this case a worker reported that all workers had been notified they were on unpaid leave in August and that he had not been paid for 2-3 months prior to that. He reported how he was unable to adequately support his family. He reported that he has finally got more duties now.
Companies
IHG Hotels & Resorts
- Client
Projects
InterContinental Doha Hotel
- Client
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Nepal
, Hotel
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: Yes, by Equidem
Action taken: IHG provided a statement saying that due to the pandemic a number of staff had been made redundant and a number had been placed onto unpaid leave to preserve jobs. IHG said they provided food and accommodation and also funded repatriation.
Source type: NGO
Summary
Date Reported: 1 Sep 2020
Location:
Qatar
In November 2020, NGO Equidem launched a report highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE, based on 206 interviews with workers. In this case a hotel worker reported that the hotel was paying only half of his salary until June 2020. He said the hotel had reduced the salaries of housekeeping staff and security staff by 20% and salaries of food and beverage workers was cut in half.
Companies
IHG Hotels & Resorts
- Client
Projects
Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park
- Client
Affected
Total individuals affected:
Number unknown
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Asia & Pacific
, Hotel
, Gender not reported
)
,
Migrant & immigrant workers: (
Number unknown
- Nepal
, Hotel
, Gender not reported
)
Issues
Wage Theft
Response
Response sought: Yes, by Equidem
Action taken: IHG provided a statement saying that due to the pandemic a number of staff had been made redundant and a number had been placed onto unpaid leave to preserve jobs. Said provided food and accomodation and also funded repatriation.
Governments and businesses in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and, to a lesser extent in Qatar, have been guilty of racial discrimination in their response to the COVID-19 pandemic, acting quickly to provide financial and other benefits to local business and nationals, while leaving thousands of migrant workers in jobless destitution and, in some instances, facing death, and the ever-present risk of being infected by a deadly virus...
Equidem’s research uncovered cases of unpaid wages and other exploitation that cut across sectors and businesses big and small. Companies have placed migrant workers on drastically reduced salaries or unpaid leave without their consent and inadequate monitoring by state authorities...
These practices have only been possible because the Governments of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar weakened labour protections and then failed to adequately enforce laws and programmes on wage payments. This made it easier for employers to reduce salaries or terminate employment contracts, leaving thousands of workers in situations of forced labour and modern slavery virtually overnight.
[Click on the allegations button to the left to see the details of the abuses alleged in this report and the companies and projects implicated.]