Over 727,000 Pakistanis Went Abroad for Jobs in 2024

News Desk

Islamabad: More than 727,000 Pakistanis left the country in 2024 in search of employment abroad, according to the Economic Survey 2024-25 released ahead of the federal budget.

The report underscores Pakistan’s continued dependence on foreign labour markets, with Gulf countries remaining the top destinations for the migrant workforce.

Saudi Arabia emerged as the leading destination, welcoming 452,562 Pakistani workers—over 62% of the total. Oman followed, attracting 11% of the migrants, while the United Arab Emirates (UAE) provided jobs to 64,130 Pakistanis, accounting for 9%.

Qatar hired 40,818 Pakistani workers (6%), whereas Bahrain and Malaysia offered employment to 25,198 and 5,790 individuals, respectively.

The data reflects the critical role overseas employment continues to play in Pakistan’s economy, particularly in terms of remittances and reducing domestic unemployment.