Saudi Arabia’s MOLSD Sets Aside USD 4.5 Billion to Soften the Impact of COVID-19 on its Labour Force

The Saudi Ministry of Labor and Social Development (MOLSD) has allocated USD 4.5 billion (SAR 17 billion) to deal with economic and employment ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nasser bin Abdulrahman Al-Hazani, a spokesperson for the MOLSD stated that the amount allocated is in line with the country’s attempt to stop the spreading of COVID-19, as well as to support the country’s workforce, private sector, and economic growth.

Al-Hazani added that, expat workers whose residency permits expire before the 30th of June will be exempted from financial fees and their residency will be extended for a further three months. He also said that employees cannot be forced to tak...