Foreign domestic workers subjected to slave-like conditions in Qatar

Domestic workers, maids and cleaners from abroad are being subjected to slave-like labour conditions in Qatar.

Many have complained that they have been deprived of passports, wages, days off, holidays and freedom to change jobs.

An investigation by the Guardian revealed hundreds of Filipino maids have fled to their embassy in recent months because of harsh conditions they have faced.

Many have complained about being physically and sexually abused, harassment, long periods without pay and the confiscation of mobile phones.

The exploitation raises further concerns about labour practices in Qatar in advance of the World Cup.

The British publication revealed that the treatment meted out to construction workers is even worse, beyond imagination.

Maids are not directly connected to Qatar's preparations for the football tournament, but domestic workers will play a big role in staffing the hotels, stadiums and other infrastructure that will underpin the 2022 tournament, the report added.