June 02, (THEWILL) – Saudi Arabia has announced the suspension of the issuance of blockwork visa quotas to Nigeria and 19 other countries.
The temporary suspension, which also affects Egypt, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Morocco, Indonesia, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Iraq, Jordan, Yemen and six other countries, was disclosed by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.
The decision impacts both new and pending applications for temporary work permits.
Blockwork visas are quota-based permits that enable Saudi employers to recruit a specific number of foreign workers.
The suspension is part of a broader effort to streamline immigration and employment processes ahead of the 2025 Hajj season. According to the ministry, the freeze will remain in effect until the end of June 2025.
Although Saudi authorities did not specify an official reason for the move, analysts say it aligns with the Kingdom’s “Saudisation” policy—a strategic effort to increase the employment of Saudi nationals, particularly in sectors like tourism. These Saudisation quotas are expected to expand further between 2026 and 2028.
Employers who previously received block visa quotas for affected countries will likely face delays in processing or outright denials. Similarly, prospective workers with approved but unused visas may encounter new barriers to entry, including possible restrictions at points of entry.
A 2022 report from the Gulf Research Centre revealed that Saudi Arabia is a major destination for African migrant workers, many of whom are engaged in low-wage and domestic jobs.
According to employment figures from that period, Nigeria had 10,657 of its citizens employed in Saudi Arabia. Egypt led African nations with 837,134 workers and Sudan followed with 354,988 workers. Morocco (18,023), Ethiopia (16,719), Tunisia (12,311), and Algeria (2,001) also had significant numbers.
Despite their contributions, African migrant workers in Saudi Arabia often grapple with difficult working conditions. Human rights groups have long criticised the Kingdom’s Kafala (sponsorship) system, which grants employers extensive control over migrant workers, sometimes resulting in exploitation and abuse.
The latest visa suspension is expected to have far-reaching implications, particularly for employers in Saudi Arabia who rely on labour from the affected nations, as well as thousands of African families depending on remittances from relatives working in the Gulf region.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
