Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended block work visas for 14 countries, including Pakistan, India, Egypt, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Iraq, as part of measures to manage immigration flows ahead of the Hajj season. The decision aims to prevent illegal entry, control overcrowding, and maintain order during this critical period. According to foreign sources, the restrictions will remain in place until the end of June 2025.
A block work visa allows Saudi companies to recruit workers from specified countries under a pre-approved quota system. However, with the new restrictions, no new applications will be processed. In addition, existing applications may face delays or even rejection. Individuals who have already received a visa but have not yet entered the Kingdom may encounter entry issues.
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The Saudi Ministry of Manpower confirmed the list of affected countries, which includes Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen, and Morocco alongside the aforementioned nations. While the ban is temporary, it has raised concerns for many migrant workers and employers dependent on overseas labor.
Meanwhile, the Jeddah Airport authorities have issued a strict advisory for travelers entering Saudi Arabia, warning against carrying prohibited items. The list includes illegal drugs, alcoholic beverages, electroshock devices, spy gadgets such as camera-equipped glasses or pens, gambling-related materials like poker games, electronic vaping devices containing intoxicants, raw gold, and items deemed immoral.
Passengers have been urged to fully comply with these regulations to avoid legal complications or detainment upon arrival. The airport administration emphasized that non-compliance could lead to serious consequences and reiterated the importance of awareness among travelers.
