RIYAD-ISLAMABAD: The demand for Pakistani manpower in Saudi Arabia has seen a significant and continuous increase, according to a recent report. This surge has drawn focused interest from Pakistani authorities.
Statistical comparisons reveal a sharp rise in labor migration. Between 2020 and 2024, approximately 1.8 million Pakistanis traveled to Saudi Arabia for employment. This figure represents a 21% increase compared to the number of workers who went there between 2015 and 2019.
This growing employment is directly linked to a major financial inflow for Pakistan. Saudi Arabia is already the largest source of remittances for the country, and these transfers have grown further, increasing from $7.39 billion in 2020 to $8.59 billion in 2024.
The rising demand is driven by massive development projects in the Kingdom, particularly those under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030. The upcoming FIFA World Cup in 2034 is also a key factor, creating a need for more skilled workers and laborers to build new stadiums, transport networks, and other supporting infrastructure.
In response, the Pakistani government has formed a high-level committee comprising various ministers and officials. This committee is tasked with overseeing economic relations and negotiations with Saudi Arabia to strengthen bilateral ties.
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Furthermore, the Bureau of Immigration and Overseas Employment is preparing a joint plan with Saudi authorities. This initiative includes establishing technical training institutes in both countries to enhance the skills and capabilities of the Pakistani workforce destined for Saudi Arabia.
