Saudi Arabia plans to open overseas labour offices, in a move seen as eliminating the role of brokers when companies look to recruit foreign workers.

Millions of expatriate workers are based in the kingdom, many working in the construction sector.

The Saudi Cabinet has approved the establishment of labour attaché offices at Saudi embassies in Egypt, India, Philippines, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia and Sri Lanka, SPA reported.

This was based on a recommendation by the Standing Committee of the Council of Economic Affairs and Development.

The move will help eliminate the role of brokers and help teach foreign workers the traditions of the country, it was reported.

The Labor and Social Development Ministry has complained several times of brokers who inflate fees for domestic workers, Arab News reported.