Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have signed 30 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at facilitating the employment of skilled Pakistani workers across various sectors in Saudi Arabia.
The agreements were finalized in Riyadh by Chaudhry Salik Hussain, the Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, alongside Brigadier Retired Sajid Khokhar, Chairman of Tevta, and officials from the Special Investment Facilitation Council.
Efforts are being made to mobilize both public and private vocational training centers in Pakistan to ensure that skilled workers are equipped with the necessary training to meet the demands of the Saudi labor market.
The government is dedicated to taking actionable steps to capitalize on opportunities for Pakistani workers and skilled professionals in Saudi Arabia, as well as in Gulf countries and worldwide.
New Regulations for Seasonal Work Visas in Saudi Arabia
Earlier, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced updated regulations for temporary work visas linked to Hajj and Umrah services. Visa holders can now remain for up to 90 days, with the possibility of extending for an additional 90 days. This change is designed to provide greater flexibility for the private sector and better align visa policies with labor market demands.
The grace period for these visas will run from Shaban 15 to the end of Muharram, making it easier to hire temporary workers during the Umrah season.
To enhance transparency, the ministry has established specific processing timeframes and mandates signed employment contracts and medical insurance for visa issuance.
Severe penalties are in place to discourage misuse, including fines of up to 50,000 Saudi riyals for companies involved in selling temporary visas, as well as potential bans from Hajj and Umrah services for up to five years. These new regulations will take effect 180 days after their approval, allowing businesses time to adjust.
PM Shehbaz’s Diplomatic Visit to Saudi Arabia and Qatar
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to travel to Saudi Arabia and Qatar today, aiming to attract investment from these oil-rich nations.
His first destination will be Saudi Arabia, where he will participate in the 8th Edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Riyadh on October 29-30.
An official statement from the Foreign Office reveals that the Prime Minister will hold discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other high-ranking officials to explore opportunities for enhancing economic collaboration. Key cabinet ministers will accompany him on this significant visit.
The Prime Minister is expected to engage in crucial bilateral talks with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, along with other senior Saudi officials, to discuss the economic and strategic partnership between the two nations and explore cooperation in economic, energy, and defense sectors.
