JEDDAH, 1 December 2005 — The ban on the renewal of work permits of expatriates above 60 applies to all workers irrespective of specializations, according to Qussi Al-Felali, acting director general of the Labor Office in the Western Region.
“The decision applies to all expatriate workers, including doctors, engineers and journalists,” Al-Felali told Arab News. He said all labor offices have been instructed to implement the decision immediately. The ministry has also banned recruitment of foreigners above 60.
He said the labor offices would cancel work permits of expatriates who reach 60 when employers apply for their renewal. “Such workers will have to leave the country,” he added. The decision does not exempt any profession, he stressed.
The Passport Department will renew the iqama or resident permit of an expatriate worker only after the renewal of the work permit by the labor office.
Al-Felali’s affirmation came amid calls by businessmen and company owners for reviewing the decision, saying it would affect their businesses. Many young Saudis welcomed the decision and said it would create more job opportunities for them.
“Expatriates reaching the age of 60 should retire, giving way for qualified Saudis to prove their skills and capabilities,” one Saudi said. “The presence of aging workers will deny us the opportunity to work in key positions,” he added.
