Ethiopian Migrants Seeking Work In Saudi Arabia Face Risk Of Death Sentences

Ethiopian Migrants Seeking Work in Saudi Arabia Face Risk of Death Sentences Every year, more than 100,000 Ethiopians are estimated to travel to Saudi Arabia in search of employment opportunities, hoping to improve their livelihoods and support families back home. However, for some migrants, the journey has ended in detention, lengthy legal battles and, in some cases, death sentences.

investigation has highlighted the experiences of Ethiopian prisoners facing execution in Saudi Arabia, including Amanuel, whose account from inside a Saudi prison revealed the fear and uncertainty experienced by inmates awaiting their fate. “Every time they knock, I feel it might be my turn,” Amanuel said, describing the constant anxiety of living under the threat of execution. Many Ethiopian migrants travel through difficult routes in search of work, often relying on informal networks and facing risks including exploitation, arrest and harsh legal consequences in destination countries.

Human rights groups have repeatedly raised concerns about the treatment of migrant workers in the Gulf region, including access to legal representation, fair trials and consular assistance for foreign nationals facing serious charges. Saudi Arabia remains a major destination for migrant labour from Ethiopia and other countries, with workers often employed in domestic service, construction, agriculture and other sectors. The cases of Ethiopian prisoners on death row have renewed calls for greater protection of migrant workers, improved legal support systems and stronger cooperation between governments to safeguard citizens working abroad.