Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have entered into 30 agreements to streamline the hiring of skilled Pakistani labor in Saudi Arabia’s various sectors.
The agreements were signed in Riyadh by Chaudhry Salik Hussain, the Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, alongside Tevta Chairman Brigadier (Retired) Sajid Khokhar and officials from the Special Investment Facilitation Council.
In an effort to meet the needs of the Saudi labor market, efforts are being made to engage public and private vocational training centers in Pakistan to ensure workers receive the necessary training.
The government is focused on capitalizing on job opportunities for skilled Pakistani individuals not only in Saudi Arabia but also in other Gulf nations and around the world.
Seasonal Work Visa Updates in Saudi Arabia
Additionally, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced new regulations for temporary work visas related to Hajj and Umrah services. Visa holders can now stay for 90 days, with a chance to extend for another 90, designed to increase flexibility for the private sector and align with labor market demands.
A grace period for these visas will run from the 15th of Shaban to the end of Muharram, facilitating the recruitment of temporary workers during the Umrah season.
To ensure transparency, the ministry has established specific processing times and requires signed employment contracts and medical insurance for visa issuance. Strict penalties, including fines up to 50,000 Saudi riyals for companies misusing these visas, are also in place.
These new regulations will be implemented 180 days after approval, allowing companies time to prepare.
PM Shehbaz’s Diplomatic Mission to Attract Investment
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to visit Saudi Arabia and Qatar today to foster investment opportunities. His first stop will be at the Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh on October 29-30.
An official statement from the Foreign Office confirms that the Prime Minister will meet with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other high-ranking officials to discuss boosting economic collaboration. Key cabinet members will accompany him on this crucial trip.
Discussions will focus on enhancing economic and strategic partnerships between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, particularly in the economic, energy, and defense sectors.
