Dhaka to ink worker recruitment deal with Riyadh in 2-3 weeks

Expatriate Welfare and Overseas Employment Adviser Asif Nazrul announced that Bangladesh will sign a landmark agreement with Saudi Arabia within the next 2-3 weeks to enhance the welfare and security of Bangladeshi migrant workers. 

Speaking at the Remittance Warriors Day event, organised by the Ministry of Expatriate Welfare and Overseas Employment at the International Mother Language Institute auditorium in Dhaka on Saturday, August 2, Asif Nazrul emphasised that this deal marks a historic first for Bangladesh.

“This agreement is unprecedented in our history,” Nazrul said. 

“Neither India nor Pakistan has a similar arrangement with Saudi Arabia. Despite multiple attempts during the previous government’s tenure, this deal was never realised. We are confident it will significantly improve the safety and security of our workers in Saudi Arabia,” he added.

Asif Nazrul also addressed the ongoing efforts to support workers who were unable to migrate to Malaysia last year despite holding valid air tickets and visas. 

“We have begun the process to facilitate their travel after assurances from Malaysia,” he said. 

However, he faced criticism on social media, with some accusing the government of prioritising new migrant workers over legalising those currently undocumented. 

“Despite the backlash, we are pushing forward with this historic agreement,” he added.

In addition to the Saudi deal, Asif Nazrul highlighted reforms within the ministry, including streamlined processes and full digitalisation to reduce harassment and improve efficiency for expatriates. 

“These changes will make a tangible difference for those going abroad,” he noted, emphasising efforts to support worker reintegration.

The Remittance Warriors Day event celebrated the contributions of Bangladeshi migrant workers, underscoring their vital role in the nation’s economy.