The source said the move was aimed at increasing the costs of employing foreigners and also at boosting the resources of the fund.

He said the payment of the monthly fees was necessary for the issuance or renewal of work permits for foreigners.

The Nitaqat program of the Labor Ministry compels the private sector to employ more Saudi men and women. Hadaf contributes to the Hafiz program, which extends monthly payments to unemployed Saudis.