Kenyans living and working in Saudi Arabia can now access round-the-clock emergency assistance following the launch of a toll-free helpline by Kenya’s Consulate in Jeddah.
The number is intended to support citizens who may feel unsafe, distressed or in need of urgent consular intervention.
In a statement released Tuesday, the Consulate said the service will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and will be manned by trained staff capable of addressing a wide range of emergencies.
Officials said the move is part of ongoing efforts to enhance the protection and welfare of Kenyan nationals in the Kingdom.
“The Consulate is here for you. Call us anytime your safety and wellbeing matters...We are ready to help you navigate with care and respect,” reads a post from the Consulate General of Kenya in Jeddah.
The initiative aims to ensure timely responses and improve communication channels for those in need.
Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei has praised the consulate for the initiative.
“Well done, Kenya Consulate Jeddah!” he wrote.
Saudi Arabia hosts thousands of Kenyan migrant workers, including domestic workers, drivers, security personnel and professionals in various sectors.
Consular officials said the new helpline is expected to provide an immediate point of contact for citizens facing urgent challenges such as workplace disputes, welfare concerns, documentation issues and emergency travel needs.
The Consulate added that the toll-free line-8001000352 complements existing consular services, including routine welfare interventions.
Human welfare groups have long called for expanded consular outreach to Kenyan workers in the Middle East, citing the need for better access to information and timely support mechanisms.
The launch of the helpline is expected to ease the burden on citizens who previously relied on standard phone lines, email communication or in-person visits, which could take time to process.
It comes at a time when the government has continued to establish bilateral labour agreements with various overseas countries with a view to creating job opportunities for Kenyans.
This, while ensuring the Kenyan youth gain global skills and diverse work experiences, benefits national development.
Labour migration partnerships are also aimed at guaranteeing decent work for migrant workers to maximise their socio-economic contribution in both their countries of origin and work.
The Consulate urged Kenyans in Saudi Arabia to familiarise themselves with the helpline details and to use the service responsibly.
“Help is only one call away. You’re never alone,” it said.
The government has recently intensified its consular footprint across key labour destination countries, reflecting ongoing reforms in labour migration management, welfare protection and diaspora engagement.
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