In a major policy shift, Saudi Arabia has lifted its temporary suspension on block work visa quotas for 14 countries, including India, Pakistan, Egypt, Bangladesh, and Indonesia. The decision, effective immediately after the Hajj 2025 season, allows companies to resume hiring foreign workers through pre-approved quotas. Nationals of these countries who already hold valid work entry visas can now travel to the Kingdom, provided they meet all airline and immigration requirements.

The block visa system, overseen by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, enables Saudi employers to recruit a fixed number of foreign workers based on business needs. The temporary halt, introduced in May 2025, was intended to ease the pressure on infrastructure and immigration during the peak Hajj pilgrimage season. While the ban was initially expected to last until the end of June, the early lift suggests an urgency to address workforce demands in the post-Hajj period.

However, authorities have cautioned that visa processing may still face delays. Even with quota approvals in place, issuing actual work entry visas could take longer due to backlogs. Travellers are urged to verify travel eligibility with airlines, carry all necessary documents, and stay updated through official channels. This move is seen as a welcome relief for employers and job seekers alike, reopening vital employment pathways for skilled and semi-skilled workers from the affected nations. Still, caution remains essential as entry rules may continue to evolve. The Ministry has advised close coordination with recruitment agencies and sponsors to ensure smooth entry and onboarding.