Member News

Middle East and North Africa Region

Many jurisdictions have implemented entry or travel restrictions for individuals who are traveling from, or have recently been present in, jurisdictions where the virus has become widespread. Some countries have gone so far as to temporarily prohibit the entry of all noncitizens and non-residents.

In addition, many airlines, rail and bus services have suspended routes into, out of, and transiting through affected areas. Those with travel plans to affected regions region should check with their travel provider for updates.

Check this page regularly for the latest immigration updates on this fluid situation.

Saudi Arabia

The Ministry of Human Resource and Social Development (MHRSD) announced the implementation of two initiatives related to part-time work and Wages Protection System that aim to further regulate labour market in Saudi Arabia. 

Wages Protection System

Effective May 1, 2020, companies with 11 or more employees must disburse all the salaries in accordance with the Wages Protection System (i.e.: on the due date and in Saudi Riyals) to both Saudi and foreign national employees. Employers are required to generate a payroll file and register it with the MHRSD before the wages are paid. Alternatively, employers can utilize a new electronic payroll platform called ‘Mudad’ which has been created to assist small and medium enterprises with salary operations. Mudad is linked with all the relevant government agencies’ portals and can automatically detect any errors related with the payroll process.

Part-Time Work

From July 2020, Saudi nationals and their employers may benefit from “a flexible contract scheme” that regulates the rules of a part-time employment in Saudi Arabia. Employers will be required to sign an electronic contract and register the worker with the General Organization for Social Insurance. Individuals will be allowed to work part-time for not more than 95 hours per month for a single employer; they will be counted as one-third of a full time Saudi employee in the Nitaqat system of their employer.

About Fragomen

Fragomen is the world’s leading single-focus provider of immigration services and support. Our firm is comprised of law practices and immigration consultancies that work together to support our clients across all regions globally. At Fragomen, we leverage our collective immigration experience to offer clients targeted and trusted solutions that help them achieve their local, regional and worldwide business goals.

Fragomen’s team of dedicated immigration professionals has extensive experience in working with multinational businesses, local employers, start-ups and individual investors. We have a deep understanding of the region and maintain strong professional relationships with immigration authorities. Our MENA immigration team is supported on a global basis by over 3,800 immigration professionals in more than 50 offices worldwide. Together, we provide comprehensive immigration support in over 170 countries.

All we do is immigration, a sole focus that makes a considerable difference. Unlike many other providers, all of our thinking, passion and resources are dedicated to improving the immigration experiences of our clients and their employees. We have the track record, region specific experience and know-how to provide you with a streamlined and compliant immigration solution.

Visit our website www.fragomen.com or contact us at dubaiinfo@fragomen.com to learn more about our company and service