Dhaka, Oct. 12 -- Mohammad Likhon came to Shahjalal International Airport knowing his flight had been cancelled. But with his visa for Saudi Arabia nearing expiry and his leave running out, staying home was hardly an option.

The worker from Kushtia was due to fly to Riyadh on a Saudia flight late Monday.

Instead, he stood beneath the terminal canopy, making calls and searching for a way back to his job.

Likhon had paid 2,350 Saudi riyals, around Tk 77,000, for a return economy ticket between Riyadh and Dhaka.

His Saudi travel agent now said only a few business-class seats remained. An alternative route through Jeddah would cost about Tk 125,000 one way.

"My kafeel [sponsor] has contacted me. He told me to buy a business-class ticket ...