The Economic Survey 2024-25, released ahead of the federal budget on Monday, reveals that a total of 727,381 Pakistanis went abroad for employment in 2024.
The report highlights the continued reliance on foreign job markets by the Pakistani workforce, with the Middle East remaining the top destination.
According to the report, Saudi Arabia remained the most favored destination for Pakistani workers, absorbing 452,562 individuals, which accounts for over 62% of the total migrant workforce.
The Kingdom’s ongoing infrastructure and development projects continue to offer ample opportunities for both skilled and unskilled laborers from Pakistan.
Oman emerged as the second most popular destination, receiving 11% of the total workforce.
This reflects Oman’s growing demand for foreign labor and its relatively stable job market for Pakistanis.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) hired 64,130 Pakistani workers, comprising 9% of the total overseas workforce.
The UAE, with its robust sectors in construction, logistics, hospitality, and security, has traditionally been a significant source of employment for Pakistani expatriates.
Qatar employed 40,818 Pakistanis, amounting to 6% of the migrant labor force.
With ongoing development initiatives and preparations for international events, Qatar remains a steady destination for Pakistani workers.
Among other countries, Bahrain provided jobs to 25,198 Pakistanis, while Malaysia hired 5,790, showing a moderate demand in Southeast Asia for Pakistani manpower.