Saudi Arabia Cancels Residency Permits for Foreign Nationals from Certain Countries

Saudi Arabia: The Saudi government has taken a surprising step by announcing a halt to the renewal of residency permits for citizens from specific countries. This decision is set to impact thousands of foreign nationals who have been residing and working in Saudi Arabia for several years. According to the announcement, citizens from these countries will be required to leave the country once their current residency permits expire, with no further renewals allowed.
Official sources indicate that this decision affects nationals from Pakistan, Yemen, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Chad, and Sudan. These individuals will not have their permits renewed and will be sent back to their home countries immediately.
Saudi authorities stated that the decision aims to reduce reliance on foreign labor in the country’s economy and to provide more job opportunities for local citizens. Additionally, some individuals from the affected countries have been included on the list due to security concerns.
This decision has come as a shock to thousands of foreign workers who have established their lives and careers in Saudi Arabia. Many are calling on the government to reconsider the decision or at least provide them with some time to make alternative arrangements for their futures.
Most affected individuals have built stable lives and careers in Saudi Arabia, and they are now grappling with concerns about how they will manage upon returning to their home countries, where economic conditions may be challenging.
As a result of this decision, key sectors of the Saudi economy, such as construction and domestic work, may face labor shortages. There are fears that this move could negatively impact the Saudi economy, while affected individuals will face new challenges in rebuilding their lives.
The impacted foreign community has urged the government to either revoke this decision or grant them additional time to better manage their circumstances.