SAUDIA ARABIA: In the first quarter of 2025, Saudi Arabia has become the leading destination for Pakistani workers, with the kingdom accounting for a significant 70% of the total emigration. This marks a shift in the overseas employment patterns for Pakistan, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s growing importance as a source of jobs and opportunities for its workforce. Historically, the UAE was the dominant destination for Pakistani workers, but Saudi Arabia’s increasing role is now reshaping this trend.
This change is largely attributed to revised visa procedures in the UAE, which have led to a sharp decline in emigration to the country. The UAE’s share of emigration has dropped to a mere 4%, a significant fall from previous years. Despite this decline, the UAE remains a key player in trade and remittances, with strong financial flows continuing between the two nations. Experts believe that once the UAE streamlines its visa processes, it could regain its former status as a leading destination for Pakistani workers.
The situation in Saudi Arabia, on the other hand, shows a burgeoning demand for skilled and unskilled labor, with many Pakistanis finding stable employment opportunities in various sectors such as construction, hospitality, and healthcare. The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative, which focuses on diversifying its economy, has also contributed to the increase in demand for foreign workers. This is a key factor driving the change in migration trends, as Pakistanis find new avenues for employment within Saudi Arabia.
Looking ahead, experts predict that the trend of increased emigration to Saudi Arabia will continue in the coming years, while the UAE may regain its share of the overseas labor market once the visa situation stabilizes. Regardless of these changes, the impact on Pakistan’s labor force and the remittance economy remains significant. As more workers migrate to Saudi Arabia, both nations stand to benefit from the continued strengthening of bilateral ties and workforce integration.
