UN Experts Urge Saudi Labour Practices Switch Before World Cup

United Nations experts have called on Saudi Arabia to reform its labour practices ahead of hosting the World Cup, stressing that improvements to worker rights and conditions are essential as preparations intensify. The appeal highlights concerns around recruitment fees, contract security, wage protection, and workplace safety for the large migrant workforce involved in building stadiums, transport links, and tournament infrastructure. Experts urged authorities to strengthen enforcement mechanisms, ensure timely payment systems, and expand access to grievance procedures so that workers can report abuses without fear of retaliation. The recommendations also emphasize the importance of aligning domestic regulations with international labour standards, increasing transparency in contracting chains, and engaging directly with trade unions and civil society groups to monitor progress. With global attention on the event, the experts noted that meaningful reform would not only safeguard thousands of workers but also protect the integrity and legacy of the tournament. The message frames the lead-up to the World Cup as a critical window for Saudi Arabia to demonstrate commitment to fair employment practices and set a precedent for future major sporting events in the region.