Kenya Launches 24/7 Emergency Consular Support for Kenyans in Saudi Arabia

Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu

The Kenyan government has announced new support measures for its diaspora community in Saudi Arabia with the introduction of a 24-hour emergency consular service for nationals in distress.

The State Department for Foreign Affairs confirmed that the Kenyan Consulate General in Jeddah has activated a toll-free emergency line that operates кругл around the clock. The service is intended to provide immediate assistance on safety concerns, labour disputes, detention cases, abuse reports, and other urgent matters involving Kenyan citizens.

Saudi Arabia remains one of the largest hosts of Kenyan migrant workers, particularly in domestic and skilled labour sectors. Authorities say the new consular service is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen protection, responsiveness, and welfare systems for Kenyans living and working abroad.

The development comes ahead of the implementation of new labour reforms in Saudi Arabia. From February 2026, a minimum monthly wage for all workers will take effect, following changes to the Kafala sponsorship system. Kenyan officials have urged workers to engage their employers and report any non-compliance through official embassy channels.

In addition, the Kenyan Embassy in Riyadh is continuing a mass registration exercise for Kenyans listed under Huroob status. The initiative targets distressed nationals who may lack proper documentation and require assistance to return home safely.

Officials say the measures reflect the government’s broader commitment to safeguarding the rights, dignity, and welfare of Kenyans in the diaspora, particularly those in vulnerable employment situations.