151K Pakistanis Find Jobs in Gulf in 3 Months

In a promising sign for Pakistan’s overseas employment sector, over 151,000 Pakistani workers secured jobs in Gulf countries within the first quarter of 2025. This surge reflects a growing demand for Pakistani labor in Middle Eastern nations and provides much-needed economic relief through increased foreign remittances.

• Over 151,000 workers were sent abroad from January to March 2025.

• Saudi Arabia remains the top destination, followed by the UAE and Qatar.

• Skilled labor, drivers, technicians, and healthcare professionals are in high demand.

• A major boost is expected for Pakistan’s remittance inflow and foreign exchange reserves.

• The government aims to send 1 million workers abroad by the end of 2025.

The Gulf region has historically been a major destination for Pakistani labor due to high demand in construction, services, and technical sectors. The trend continues in 2025, with countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Qatar, and Bahrain leading in job offers.

Top Destinations for Pakistani Workers:

• Saudi Arabia – 60,000+

• UAE – 40,000+

• Qatar – 25,000+

• Oman and Bahrain – Remaining numbers

Pakistani workers are being hired across a wide spectrum of roles. The following categories saw the most overseas recruitment:

• Skilled laborers: Electricians, plumbers, mechanics

• Construction workers: Masons, carpenters, heavy machinery operators

• Healthcare workers: Nurses, medical technicians, support staff

• Drivers: HTV/LTV drivers for logistics companies

• IT professionals and engineers: Especially in the UAE and Qatar

This employment boom brings critical economic advantages for Pakistan’s fragile economy, especially in terms of foreign remittances.

• Increased remittance inflow supports Pakistan's balance of payments.

• Helps stabilize the rupee against the US dollar.

• Reduces domestic unemployment pressure.

• Enhances foreign currency reserves.

• Promotes bilateral relations between Pakistan and the Gulf countries.

In 2024, Pakistan received over $30 billion in remittances, and this number is expected to grow further in 2025.

Pakistan’s Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development has actively worked to streamline the overseas employment process.

Initiatives Supporting Workers:

• Simplified registration via the Bureau of Emigration portal.

• Pre-departure training programs for skill development.

• MOUs signed with Gulf countries for labor cooperation.

• Awareness campaigns to educate citizens about job fraud and human trafficking.

Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, recently stated:

“Our goal is to send 1 million skilled and semi-skilled workers abroad in 2025. This is vital for national economic strength and individual prosperity.”

The government has activated several regional employment centers (RECs) across the country in cities like Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, and Multan. These centers help with:

• Document verification

• Job matching

• Skill assessments

• Overseas job application support

The recent surge in deployment is credited to better coordination between these RECs and recruiting agencies.

The government warns citizens to avoid illegal agents and unauthorized consultants. Instead, workers should:

• Register only with licensed overseas employment promoters (OEPs).

• Check job listings on the official Bureau of Emigration & Overseas Employment website.

• Attend orientation sessions for legal and cultural guidance.

• Always verify visa authenticity before travel.

The strong first quarter sets the tone for an even more impactful year ahead. With enhanced foreign partnerships and local reforms in place, Pakistan’s overseas labor market is expected to expand further.

Upcoming Developments:

• More bilateral agreements with Saudi Arabia and Qatar

• Launch of a digital overseas employment portal

• Establishment of vocational training institutes in rural areas

• Targeted recruitment drives for women and youth

The deployment of over 151,000 Pakistani workers to Gulf nations in just three months is a powerful indicator of both international demand and domestic preparedness. As Pakistan continues to invest in skill development and job export frameworks, this momentum is expected to strengthen the country’s economic foundations and offer better livelihoods to thousands of families.