Migrant workers in Gulf face rising risks amid regional conflict: HRW
Millions of migrant workers across Gulf countries are facing increasing threats to their safety, income and basic rights as regional tensions escalate, according to Human Rights Watch.
The rights group said the ongoing conflict has not only created immediate dangers but also exposed deep-rooted weaknesses in labour protections, particularly under the widely criticised kafala sponsorship system.
Citing recent incidents, HRW said several migrant workers have been killed or injured in conflict-related attacks across GCC states. Victims include nationals from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Nepal working in sectors such as transport and security. In one case, a Bangladeshi driver was killed in Ajman after debris struck his vehicle, while another died in Bahrain after being hit by shrapnel while returning from work.
Workers interviewed by HRW described living under constant fear while continuing essential services in hospitals, delivery networks and public transport. Many said they have no option but to keep working despite safety risks due to financial obligations and lack of alternatives.
The conflict has also severely affected livelihoods. Workers in commission-based roles, such as taxi drivers and delivery personnel, reported sharp declines in income, in some cases earning little or nothing after long hours. Rising food prices across countries like the UAE, Kuwait and Qatar have further strained already tight budgets, with some workers reporting that their monthly expenses have doubled.
In sectors such as hospitality and retail, reduced business activity has led to layoffs, unpaid leave and reduced working hours. Some workers said employers were pressuring them to return home while requiring them to cover high travel costs themselves.
Undocumented migrants and those on informal “free visas” remain among the most vulnerable, often lacking legal protection and access to assistance. Many continue to struggle with heavy recruitment debts despite declining income. HRW has called on Gulf governments to implement emergency measures, including wage protection, compensation for income losses, mandatory insurance coverage and support for repatriation. It also urged authorities to ensure clear communication in workers’ native languages and hold employers accountable for upholding labour rights during the crisis.
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