2034 FIFA World Cup opens up opportunities for Bangladesh’s workforce

Saudi Arabia's selection as the host for the 2034 FIFA World Cup presents an unprecedented opportunity for Bangladesh. As one of the largest man-power exporting countries to the Gulf, Bangladesh has the potential to significantly benefit from the extensive infrastructure development and economic activities associated with this global sporting event. Proactive planning and strategic action are essential for Bangladesh to capitalise on this momentous opportunity.

Bangladesh already enjoys a substantial presence in Saudi Arabia. As per the Bureau of Manpower, Employment, and Training (BMET), Bangladesh has sent 5.7 million workers to Saudi Arabia since 1976. In the fiscal year 2022-23 alone, more than 452,000 workers were sent to Saudi Arabia, including 61,000 women. 

During the same period, remittances from Saudi Arabia reached $3.7 billion, significantly bolstering Bangladesh's foreign exchange reserves during the ongoing Forex crisis. These remittances have a significant impact on socio-economic development, supporting millions of families, revitalising rural economies, and contributing to poverty alleviation nationwide.

Saudi Arabia is estimated to invest billions in infrastructure development for the World Cup, including the construction of 11 new stadiums, refurbishment of existing ones, and expansion of transportation networks and hospitality facilities. This massive investment will require a large workforce, presenting a golden opportunity for skilled and unskilled Bangladeshi workers across sectors such as construction, hospitality, and logistics.

Establishing transparent and skill-based selection processes will ensure fair opportunities for all candidates, while minimising risks of exploitation. Strict enforcement of labour laws, awareness campaigns, and penalties for offenders can further curb these challenges

However, there will be stiff challenges, especially fierce competition from countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, as well as the Philippines— which is known for its highly skilled labour in sectors like hospitality and healthcare — among other countries. To remain competitive, Bangladesh must adopt a multi-pronged strategy to prepare its workforce and establish a robust framework for labor migration.

First, Bangladesh must initiate negotiations with Saudi Arabia to forge a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that outlines key aspects of labour migration over the next decade. This MoU should address critical issues such as skills requirement, recruitment fees, legal protections, insurance, working conditions, minimum wages, and other benefits. Early agreements can secure favourable conditions for Bangladeshi workers' recruitment, and ensure their rights are protected.

Second, skill development must be prioritised. Key government agencies, including the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment, Bureau of Manpower, Employment, and Training (BMET) and Bangladesh Overseas Employment and Services Ltd (BOESL) should collaborate with the private sector to design vocational training programs tailored to the demands of projects related to hosting the World Cup. 

Training should focus on construction, electrical work, plumbing, hospitality, language skills and legal knowledge to enhance employability and earning potential. Special attention should be given to economically disadvantaged regions, such as the northern, southern, and coastal districts and the hill tracks, where access to economic opportunities remains limited.

Third, formal recruiting channels and its structure must be strengthened to curb informal and illegal recruitment practices. Unethical activities, favouritism, and fraud often lead to exploitation of vulnerable workers, undermining their prospects and safety. 

Establishing transparent and skill-based selection processes will ensure fair opportunities for all candidates, while minimising risks of exploitation. Strict enforcement of labour laws, awareness campaigns, and penalties for offenders can further curb these challenges.

Fourth, Bangladesh should coordinate closely with potential infrastructure development companies engaged in World Cup projects. By building partnerships with Saudi contractors and employers, Bangladesh can facilitate direct placement of workers in high-demand sectors. This proactive engagement can also help align the training programs with specific project requirements.

Fifth, the government must strengthen institutions like BMET and BOESL to handle the expected surge in labour demand. These agencies should be equipped with modern resources, robust monitoring systems, and effective grievance redressal mechanisms to support migrant workers throughout their employment lifecycle.

The relevant ministries, authorities, and agencies within GoB must ensure that recruitment agencies under the Bangladesh Association of International Recruiting Agencies (BAIRA) adhere to ethical practices in the skills export processes and work in close collaboration with the government. Transparent recruitment processes, fair treatment, and adequate pre-departure orientation programs can enhance the overall experience of migrant workers and improve Bangladesh's reputation as a reliable labour source.

Additionally, a comprehensive business plan is required to maximise the benefits of labour migration. This plan should focus on uplifting workers from underdeveloped districts, ensuring regional equity in access to opportunities. Investments in worker welfare— such as healthcare, insurance, and education for migrants' families—can create a sustainable model of labour migration that benefits both the workers and the national economy. Bangladesh can adopt a holistic strategy to improve the employment journey of every migrant worker.

Bangladesh must consider the 2034 FIFA World Cup more than just a sporting event; it is an opportunity to enhance its global labour market share, boost remittance inflows, and foster socio-economic development. By acting now—through strategic negotiations, skill development, ethical recruitment, and institutional strengthening—Bangladesh can position itself as a key workforce partner for Saudi Arabia's World Cup preparations.

Sketch: TBS

Makshudul Alom Mokul Mondal is a public policy and advocacy specialist with over a decade of experience in private sector development, trade facilitation, and SME finance.