In a statement released on Wednesday, January 14, the Kenya Consulate General in Jeddah confirmed that the service is now operational and can be accessed through a toll-free emergency hotline.
According to the consulate, the initiative is part of the government’s broader efforts to strengthen protection for Kenyans in the diaspora, particularly migrant workers who may encounter difficulties related to labor disputes, abuse, detention, or documentation issues.
“The Kenya Consulate in Jeddah has launched a toll-free number for emergency consular services available 24/7,” the statement read.
The emergency hotline 8001000352 is accessible at all hours, with consular officials assuring Kenyans that assistance will be provided promptly whenever the need arises.
“Your safety and wellbeing matter. Help is only one call away,” the consulate added, emphasizing its commitment to responding with care, professionalism, and respect.
The announcement comes amid several recent developments affecting Kenyan nationals in Saudi Arabia.
In November 2025, the Kenyan Embassy in Riyadh informed workers that the Saudi government would implement a new minimum wage beginning February 2026.
Under the new regulation, all workers will be entitled to a minimum monthly salary of SAR 1,000, equivalent to approximately KSh 34,000.
Under the new regulation, all workers will be entitled to a minimum monthly salary of SAR 1,000, equivalent to approximately KSh 34,000.
The embassy noted that the policy forms part of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing labor reforms following changes to the controversial Kafala sponsorship system.
The embassy urged Kenyan workers to engage their employers early to ensure compliance with the new wage requirements and to report any violations through official diplomatic channels.
In another key update, the Kenyan Embassy in Riyadh announced a mass registration exercise targeting Kenyans listed under Huroob — a status assigned to foreign workers reported absent by their employers.
The registration drive, launched in late November, is intended to identify distressed citizens and facilitate assistance, including possible repatriation to Kenya.
The embassy clarified that Kenyans seeking help do not necessarily need a passport to be assisted. Applicants can apply for an Emergency Travel Certificate (ETC) using alternative identification documents such as a National ID, birth certificate, Huduma Card, driving licence, or a copy of a passport, where available.
Officials explained that the move is designed to remove barriers that previously prevented vulnerable citizens from accessing help.
“This exercise is meant to assist Kenyans in distress and facilitate their safe return home,” the embassy stated.
The launch of the 24/7 emergency hotline, alongside labor reforms and registration initiatives, signals increased government focus on the welfare of Kenyans working in the Middle East. Saudi Arabia hosts one of the largest populations of Kenyan migrant workers, many of whom are employed in domestic and service sectors.
Authorities have encouraged all Kenyans in Saudi Arabia to save the emergency hotline number, remain informed through official embassy updates, and promptly report any cases of abuse, exploitation, or emergencies.
The embassy urged Kenyan workers to engage their employers early to ensure compliance with the new wage requirements and to report any violations through official diplomatic channels.
In another key update, the Kenyan Embassy in Riyadh announced a mass registration exercise targeting Kenyans listed under Huroob — a status assigned to foreign workers reported absent by their employers.
The registration drive, launched in late November, is intended to identify distressed citizens and facilitate assistance, including possible repatriation to Kenya.
The embassy clarified that Kenyans seeking help do not necessarily need a passport to be assisted. Applicants can apply for an Emergency Travel Certificate (ETC) using alternative identification documents such as a National ID, birth certificate, Huduma Card, driving licence, or a copy of a passport, where available.
Officials explained that the move is designed to remove barriers that previously prevented vulnerable citizens from accessing help.
“This exercise is meant to assist Kenyans in distress and facilitate their safe return home,” the embassy stated.
The launch of the 24/7 emergency hotline, alongside labor reforms and registration initiatives, signals increased government focus on the welfare of Kenyans working in the Middle East. Saudi Arabia hosts one of the largest populations of Kenyan migrant workers, many of whom are employed in domestic and service sectors.
Authorities have encouraged all Kenyans in Saudi Arabia to save the emergency hotline number, remain informed through official embassy updates, and promptly report any cases of abuse, exploitation, or emergencies.
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