In a move to boost the country’s economy and facilitate labor mobility, Saudi Arabia has announced an extension of its seasonal work visa program, increasing the duration of stay for foreign workers from 90 to 180 days. This new policy aims to support various sectors, including tourism, agriculture, construction, and hospitality, particularly during peak seasons.
The extended visa will allow foreign workers to stay in the kingdom for up to six months, giving employers more flexibility in hiring temporary labor to meet seasonal demand. The decision also comes as part of Saudi Arabia’s broader effort to diversify its economy and reduce reliance on traditional oil revenues by investing in industries that require both local and international talent.
According to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, the move will benefit both Saudi employers and foreign nationals, offering better opportunities for skilled and semi-skilled workers to participate in the kingdom’s growing sectors.
“This extension aligns with the Vision 2030 strategy, helping to create a more dynamic workforce, attract skilled labor, and address the seasonal demands of various industries,” said the ministry in a statement.
The policy change is expected to have a positive impact on sectors such as tourism, with Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry experiencing a surge in visitors, especially during religious events and holidays. Agricultural enterprises, which require additional labor during harvest periods, will also benefit from the extended work permits.
The new visa policy is also designed to help regulate labor mobility in the kingdom and ensure that foreign workers’ rights are protected, offering greater legal safeguards and transparency for temporary employees.
The Saudi government has emphasized that this is part of a series of labor reforms intended to streamline the employment process and make it more adaptable to the evolving needs of the country’s economy. The move also comes at a time when Saudi Arabia is seeking to improve its global competitiveness and attract foreign investments in various sectors.
With the extension of these seasonal work visas, Saudi Arabia is reinforcing its commitment to a more inclusive and sustainable economic growth model as part of its Vision 2030 transformation plan.
