In a move with wide-reaching implications, Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended block work visas for citizens of 14 countries, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nigeria. This decision, in effect until the end of June 2025, comes just ahead of the annual Hajj pilgrimage and is expected to significantly disrupt labour supply in key sectors such as construction, hospitality, and domestic services.
Block work visas are essentially bulk hiring approvals granted to companies looking to employ large groups of foreign workers. With this channel now inaccessible on the Kingdom’s official labour platform, Qiwa, companies will no longer be able to initiate mass recruitment applications under the existing system. Many organisations, especially in manpower-dependent industries, may face considerable delays or cancellations of even previously approved visa quotas.
In addition to the major South Asian economies, countries impacted include Egypt, Jordan, Yemen, Indonesia, Morocco, Sudan, Tunisia, Ethiopia, Algeria, and Iraq. Reports suggest that even those who already hold valid work visas from these nations, but have not yet entered Saudi Arabia, could face additional scrutiny or entry restrictions.
While no formal explanation has been issued by Saudi authorities, experts link the decision to the country’s ongoing Saudisation drive — a national employment strategy aimed at boosting the participation of Saudi nationals in the workforce. As part of this policy, local labour quotas are anticipated to grow steadily from 2026 to 2028.
This visa suspension follows other recent administrative changes, such as tighter controls on family visit permits and new restrictions on Umrah visa applications. Collectively, these changes are heightening anxiety for migrant workers and recruitment agencies alike. Families dependent on overseas income now face greater financial stress, and those planning to travel for employment are strongly advised to confirm their visa status in advance to avoid last-minute complications.
As Saudi Arabia reshapes its labour market to favour local employment, the ripple effects will be felt by thousands of workers and businesses across continents.
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