Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have signed 30 Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) to promote employment of skilled Pakistanis in various sectors within Saudi Arabia.
The agreement was formally signed in Riyadh with Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, Chairman Retired Brigadier General Tevta Sajid Khokhar and officials from the Special Investment Facilitation Council.
Efforts are underway in Pakistan to mobilize public and private vocational training centers so that skilled workers are trained according to the requirements of the Saudi labor market.
The Government is committed to taking practical steps to take advantage of the opportunities available to Pakistani workers and skilled talent, not only in Saudi Arabia but also in the Gulf and around the world.
New regulations regarding seasonal work visas in Saudi Arabia
Previously, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah introduced updated regulations regarding temporary work visas related to Hajj and Umrah services. Visa holders will be able to stay for up to 90 days, with the option to extend for a further 90 days. The changes are aimed at increasing flexibility in the private sector and aligning visa policy with labor market needs.
The grace period for these visas will run from the 15th of Shaban until the end of Muharram, making it easier to hire temporary workers during the Umrah season.
To increase transparency, the ministry has set specific processing periods and requires the signing of an employment contract and medical insurance before issuing a visa.
Significant penalties have been put in place to deter abuse, including fines of up to SAR 50,000 for companies selling temporary visas and a ban on Hajj and Umrah services for up to five years. These new regulations will take effect 180 days after approval, giving businesses time to adapt.
Prime Minister Shehbaz will fly to Saudi Arabia and Qatar today
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to embark on a diplomatic visit to Saudi Arabia and Qatar today, with the main aim of attracting investment from these oil-producing countries.
His first stop will be Saudi Arabia, where he will take part in the 8th Future Investment Initiative (FII) to be held in Riyadh from October 29-30.
Official statements from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs indicate that the prime minister will engage in talks with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other senior officials to explore opportunities for increased economic cooperation. He will be accompanied by key ministers on this important visit.
The prime minister is expected to hold important bilateral talks with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman and other senior Saudi officials.
The two sides will discuss the economic and strategic partnership between the two countries and explore bilateral cooperation in the fields of economy, energy and defense.
