Saudi Arabia issued around 14 lakh visas to Bangladeshi nationals in 2025, including 7,50,000 work permits, underscoring the growing mobility of workers and strengthening labour cooperation between the two countries, according to Saudi Ambassador to Bangladesh Abdullah Zafer H bin Abiyah.
The ambassador shared the figures during a meeting with Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman on Sunday, where both sides discussed opportunities to deepen bilateral engagement and expand collaboration in key sectors.
He noted that continued development activities across Saudi Arabia are generating sustained demand for skilled and semi-skilled workers from Bangladesh. The large number of visas issued reflects ongoing labour demand as well as structured recruitment channels between the two nations.
The envoy conveyed greetings from the Saudi government and reiterated Riyadh’s commitment to broadening ties with Dhaka beyond manpower cooperation to include trade, investment and energy partnerships.
Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman described Saudi Arabia as a longstanding strategic partner and highlighted the historical foundation of diplomatic relations established in 1976 with the opening of Bangladesh’s embassy in the Kingdom.
He recalled President Ziaur Rahman’s visit to Saudi Arabia in 1977 and acknowledged early cooperation in strengthening ties within the Muslim world.
He thanked the Kingdom for hosting a significant Bangladeshi workforce and stressed the potential to further expand economic cooperation in emerging sectors.
The ambassador also met State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam and expressed readiness to work with the new government to enhance bilateral relations.
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