Thousands of Bangladeshi workers are caught between expiring papers and cancelled flights. Dhaka is now trying to buy them time with Saudi authorities.
What the Government Is Doing
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam said the government is working with Saudi authorities to extend the validity of visas and iqamas. These are for expatriates who cannot reach their workplaces because of the conflict. She said Dhaka is also reviewing visa-related issues and supporting those who lost jobs.
Why Workers Are Stranded
Attacks on Riyadh airport disrupted 62 flights, leaving 9,674 passengers stranded or delayed. As of 14 October, 41 direct and 59 transit flights from Dhaka had been affected, per the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh. Passengers included migrant workers and Umrah pilgrims.
The Visa Clock Is Ticking
Some workers face tight return dates. One Dammam-bound worker had to be back by October 15 or get a leave extension and permission to travel. Another spent Tk 3.5 lakh to secure a Saudi job and could not fly.
A Difficult Negotiation
State Minister for Expatriate Welfare Nurul Haque said Dhaka is seeking bilateral talks. He admitted the talks would be hard, since Saudi Arabia is dealing with the fallout of the attacks. He said standing by a long-standing friend is Bangladesh’s moral responsibility.
Why Saudi Arabia Matters
Nurul Haque said nearly 75% of Bangladeshi migrant workers go to the Middle East. More than half of them go to Saudi Arabia. Departures had dropped in recent months because of the war but were starting to recover.
Plan B for Workers
The government is exploring other labour markets. It is giving affected workers priority in government-to-government recruitment, including Malaysia. Officials also hope reconstruction after the war will create jobs for Bangladeshis.
Trade Body Joins the Appeal
The Saudi Arabia-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry urged visa extensions, employer coordination and alternative arrangements for joining workplaces.
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