Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have signed 30 memoranda of understanding (MoU) to facilitate employment of qualified Pakistani workers in various sectors in Saudi Arabia.

The agreements were formalized in Riyadh by Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Chaudhry Salik Hussain along with Chairman Retired Brigadier Tevta Sajid Khokhar and officials of the Council investment facilitation special.

Efforts are underway to mobilize public and private vocational training centers in Pakistan to ensure that skilled workers are trained in accordance with 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 individuals in Saudi Arabia, as well as in the Gulf countries and around the world.

New regulations for seasonal work visas in Saudi Arabia

Earlier The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has introduced updated regulations for temporary work visas associated with Hajj and Umrah services. Visa holders can now stay for up to 90 days, with the option to extend for an additional 90 days. This change aims to increase the flexibility of the private sector and better align visa policies with labor market needs.

The grace period for these visas will extend from 15 Shaban until the end of Muharram, making it easier to hire temporary workers during the Umrah season.

To improve transparency, the ministry has set specific processing times and requires the signing of employment contracts and medical insurance for visa issuance.

Significant sanctions are in place to deter abuse, including fines of up to 50,000 Saudi riyals for companies selling temporary visas and potential bans on Hajj and Umrah services for up to five years. These new regulations will come into effect 180 days after approval, giving businesses time to adapt.

PM Shehbaz flies to Saudi Arabia, Qatar today

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is together today undertake a diplomatic visit to Saudi Arabia and Qatar, with the main aim of attracting investment from these oil-rich countries.

His first stop will be Saudi Arabia, where he will participate in the 8th edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Riyadh on October 29 and 30.

An official statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the Prime Minister will engage in discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other senior officials to explore opportunities for strengthening economic collaboration. Key ministers will accompany him on this important visit.

The Prime Minister is expected to hold important bilateral discussions with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman as well as 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.