Kathmandu, Jan. 21 -- Saudi Arabia's strict enforcement of 'Saudization,' a policy requiring companies to prioritise citizens for employment, is putting Nepali and other foreign workers at risk, especially in senior and specialised roles. Many foreign workers report that their visas are no longer being renewed.

The policy mandates that companies fill higher-level and specialist positions with Saudi nationals. Raman Sah, a Nepali engineer who worked eight years at a Saudi engineering firm, said his position was given to a Saudi citizen. "The company informed me that they cannot continue my employment. We must maintain at least 30 percent Saudi engineers. There is also pressure on Indian engineers," he said.

On December 31, Saudi Arabia's...