Shifting Trends in Pakistan’s Overseas Workforce

A recent report indicates a notable shift in the destinations for Pakistan’s overseas workforce. The first quarter of 2025 witnessed a significant decrease in worker emigration to the UAE. This decline is reportedly due to alterations in the UAE’s visa regulations.

According to a brokerage house report, Saudi Arabia has emerged as a primary destination for Pakistani workers during the same period.

“The drop in worker emigration to the UAE during 1QCY25 is largely attributable to frequent changes in visa procedures and policies, which has decelerated manpower exports to all UAE states.”

The report further noted, “Conversely, Saudi Arabia has experienced a substantial surge, accounting for 70% of total emigration in 1QCY25,” citing data from the Bureau of Emigration & Overseas Employment.

The report indicates that the UAE’s share has decreased to only 4%, which is a considerable drop from the historical average of 35%, which signals a change in emigration patterns.

Remittances from UAE Expected to Exceed $7 Billion

The UAE remains a key trading partner for Pakistan and a significant source of remittances, which are crucial for the country’s economy.

While authorities from both nations have stated that there is no formal prohibition on UAE visas for Pakistanis, numerous reports in recent months have pointed to increased scrutiny and a higher rate of visa rejections by UAE authorities.

In a more recent development, the UAE Ambassador to Pakistan mentioned that Pakistanis can now obtain five-year visas following the resolution of “existing issues.”

According to the brokerage house, “Should Pakistan secure more relaxed emigration processes from the UAE, given its historically significant share in annual manpower exports, remittance inflows could see a considerable boost.”

The report concluded, “With a reinforced framework to reduce unofficial channels and consistent inflows from Saudi Arabia and the UAE, remittances from these two countries could potentially contribute over 50% of Pakistan’s total remittance inflows going forward.”

Record Remittances Received in March 2025

Data from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) revealed that Pakistan’s inflow of overseas workers’ remittances reached $4.1 billion in March 2025, exceeding the $4 billion mark for the first time.

Remittances displayed a 37% increase year-over-year, compared to the $2.95 billion recorded in the corresponding month of the previous year. Additionally, there was a 30% rise on a monthly basis, compared to $3.12 billion in February.