Domestic workers in Kuwait represented approximately 24.9% of the country’s total expatriate labor force by the end of 2024, according to data from the Central Statistical Administration. The number of domestic workers stood at around 736,000, reflecting a 6.4% decrease compared to 2023, when the figure was approximately 786,000.

According to a recent report by Al-Shall Consulting Company, about 410,000 domestic workers were female, while 326,000 were male.

Top Nationalities Among Female Domestic Workers

Among female domestic workers, the Philippines led with 137,000 workers, a notable drop from 183,000 in 2023.

Top Nationalities Among Male Domestic Workers

Indian nationals comprised the largest group of male domestic workers, numbering around 212,000, down from 249,000 the previous year.

The report, cited by Al-Jarida daily, did not provide a clear explanation for this year-on-year decline in domestic worker numbers.

India continues to be the largest contributor to Kuwait’s domestic labor market, accounting for about 42.1% of the total domestic workforce. The Philippines ranks second with 18.7%.

Combined, four nationalities—India, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh—make up approximately 90.4% of Kuwait’s domestic worker population.

Other Notable Nationalities

• Nepal holds a 6.8% share.
• Sudan has the smallest share at 0.2%.
• Benin (1.1%), Ethiopia (0.8%), Mali (0.4%), and Sudan are also among the top ten source countries for domestic workers.

When considering all categories of expatriate workers, Indian nationals remain the largest group in Kuwait, with about 884,000 workers. Despite a decline of around 41,000 domestic male workers since 2023, Indians still account for 30% of Kuwait’s total labor force.

Top Nationalities in Kuwait’s Total Workforce

• Egyptians represent the second-largest group with approximately 16.2% of the total labor force.
• Kuwaiti nationals rank third with 450,000 workers, slightly down from 454,000 in 2023. However, the Public Authority for Civil Information reports a higher number of 505,000, possibly due to the inclusion of military personnel or unemployed individuals.

Bangladeshi and Filipino Workers

• Bangladesh holds fourth place with approximately 276,000 workers, up from 263,000 in 2023, accounting for 9.4% of the total workforce and 11% of the expatriate population.
• The Philippines ranks fifth with about 200,000 workers, a decline from 249,000, representing 6.8% of the total workforce and 8% of expatriate workers.

The decline in the number of domestic workers in Kuwait, particularly among Indian and Filipino nationals, signals a potential shift in labor market dynamics. As Kuwait continues to evolve its labor policies and manage its expatriate workforce, understanding these trends is crucial for policymakers and stakeholders alike.