Saudi embassy issued over 2.2 million workers' visas in last 3 years: Ambassador

The Saudi embassy issued more than 2.2 million workers' visas over the past three years, facilitating opportunities for Bangladeshi workers, Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Bangladesh Essa Youssef Essa Al Duhailan said today (28 January).

Over the past five years bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia have reached new heights, marked by several significant developments, he said at a function in Dhaka.

The ambassador, who received this year's "Bangladesh Medal for Diplomatic Excellence", said with new opportunities in trade and investment, Bangladesh has successfully attracted significant Saudi investments, including projects by ACWA Power, Red Sea Gateway International company and companies in the pharmaceutical, readymade garments, food agriculture and many other sectors.

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin, Secretary (East) Dr Md Nazrul Islam and Director General (West Asia Wing) Md Shafiqur Rahman were present at the ceremony held at the Foreign Service Academy.

Frequent visits by Saudi and Bangladeshi businessmen have further enhanced our economic ties, the ambassador said.

The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief) has been actively providing humanitarian assistance in Bangladesh, particularly for Rohingya refugees, by supporting health and nutrition programmes, distributing food baskets, and collaborating with organisations like UNICEF to improve living conditions in refugee camps.

"Throughout my five years of service, I have worked tirelessly to ensure our diplomatic efforts are both effective and impactful," said the ambassador.

Attending more than 50 meetings every month and remaining on call 24/7— particularly during the Hajj season, the envoy said he dedicated himself to elevating Saudi-Bangladesh relations to new horizons.

"I firmly believe that our relationship is multifaceted, extending far beyond Hajj, Umrah, or manpower. It encompasses trade, investment, culture, sports, tourism and every other aspect of cooperation that strengthens our bond," he said.

The ambassador said over 50 high-level visits between dignitaries from both countries have significantly enhanced the relationship and promoted mutual understanding.

"We successfully implemented digital applications for Hajj and Umrah, including the Nusuk and Makkah Route Initiatives, which will be implemented again this year to streamline the pilgrimage process for Bangladeshi citizens," he said.