Abaya shops warned

The Labor Ministry is warning that it will intensify raids on abaya and lingerie shops from July 8, in association with related departments, to ensure they are run by Saudi women and follow the necessary conditions.
“We have plans to restrict more jobs to women gradually,” the ministry said.
Lingerie and abaya shops that violate employment rules would be listed among the Red category and denied of the ministry’s services.
“Employing women in abaya and lingerie shops is a must as it comes as part of the ministry’s efforts to create more jobs for Saudi women, especially in sectors related to women,” said a ministry official.
“All shops should meet the criteria before July 7,” he added.
In a related development, Saudi businessmen have called for the setting up of specialized companies to provide various services such as plumbing, cleaning and electrical services to meet manpower shortage following the departure of thousands of illegals.
Fahd Al-Hammadi, chairman of the National Committee for Contractors and a member of the Council of Saudi Chambers, said such a plan would help get rid of illegal workers.
Many foreigners providing such services were living in the Kingdom illegally violating the residency and labor regulations.
Such firms named district service companies are now operating in many Western countries, he said adding that they could ensure quality of service.
He said the departure of thousands of foreign workers had brought heavy losses to Saudi companies, adding that it amounted to 15 percent of their profit.
“I expect closure of 40 percent of service shops due to lack of qualified manpower,” he added.
Al-Hammadi said the ministries of labor and commerce should provide alternative workers to meet the shortage, especially to provide various services required by citizens and prevent any increase in service charges.