Qiwa Mandates Shared Housing for Certain Professions

The Qiwa platform has announced new requirements for shared housing applicable to establishments employing more than 20 workers in specific professions. These requirements cover four occupational categories, comprising a total of 527 professions, as per the Saudi Standard Classification of Occupations. The targeted professions include 53 for skilled workers in agriculture, forestry, and fish farming; 179 for craftsmen and related trades; 218 for factory and machine operators and assembly workers; and 77 for workers in elementary occupations.

The platform clarified that these professions fall under occupational classifications six, seven, eight, and nine. Establishments within these categories are required to provide licensed shared housing for their workers. Importantly, paying a housing allowance as part of the salaries does not exempt employers from this obligation.

For non-targeted professions, employers have the option to either provide accommodation or offer a housing allowance. The Qiwa platform emphasized the importance of adhering to technical and health requirements to ensure a safe and healthy living environment for workers.