Saudi Arabia abolishes iqama fees for industrial expatriate workers

Riyadh: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has approved a major decision concerning expatriate workers employed in the Kingdom’s industrial sector.

According to foreign media reports, the approval was granted during a Saudi cabinet meeting chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The cabinet endorsed the abolition of residency (iqama) fees for foreign workers employed in the industrial sector.

The decision was taken on the recommendation of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs and reflects the Crown Prince’s broader efforts to strengthen national industry and enhance its sustainability and competitiveness at the international level.

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The removal of fees for expatriate industrial workers is being described as a strategic step towards achieving the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. The vision aims to build a strong, resilient, and competitive industrial economy, with industry regarded as a key pillar for diversifying national income beyond oil.