Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabia Expand Cooperation on Labor Migration Frameworks
New agreements aim to protect workers’ rights while supporting Saudi workforce needs and Uzbekistan’s overseas employment strategy
Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabia have agreed to deepen cooperation on labor migration, marking a further step in strengthening bilateral ties as both countries seek to align economic priorities and workforce needs.
Officials from the two governments confirmed that updated arrangements will expand legal pathways for Uzbek citizens to work in Saudi Arabia while enhancing protections, training standards and regulatory oversight for migrant workers.
The discussions focused on streamlining recruitment processes, improving data sharing between labor authorities and ensuring that employment contracts meet agreed standards on wages, working conditions and social protections.
Saudi Arabia views the expanded cooperation as part of its broader labor market reforms and Vision Two Thousand Thirty strategy, which aims to modernise the economy while maintaining a stable and well-regulated foreign workforce.
Uzbek authorities highlighted that labor migration plays a significant role in supporting household incomes and skills development, and stressed that formalised agreements help reduce risks associated with irregular employment abroad.
Both sides also explored opportunities for skills certification and pre-departure training programmes to better match Uzbek workers with Saudi demand in sectors such as construction, services and healthcare.
The renewed partnership reflects a shared interest in managing labor mobility in a structured and mutually beneficial manner, reinforcing economic links between Central Asia and the Gulf while prioritising worker welfare and legal clarity.