In the first quarter of 2025, over 172,000 Pakistani workers ventured abroad for employment, with skilled professionals like engineers, doctors, and technicians among those securing high-demand positions, according to the Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment (BEOE).
Saudi Arabia led the way as the top destination for Pakistani workers, welcoming 121,970 individuals. Other Gulf countries such as Qatar (12,989), Oman (8,331), and the UAE (6,891) also saw significant numbers of Pakistanis seeking job opportunities.
Beyond the Gulf region, countries like Bahrain (939), Malaysia (775), China (592), Azerbaijan (350), and Turkey (870) also attracted a growing number of skilled workers. The United Kingdom (1,454), Germany (264), Greece (815), and Italy (109) were also notable destinations for the Pakistani workforce, highlighting the global demand for skilled professionals.
A key trend in the first quarter of 2025 was the rise in the export of skilled labour. Among those employed abroad, 1,479 engineers, 849 doctors, and 390 nurses found work in foreign markets, contributing to the growing recognition of Pakistan’s skilled workforce. Professions in high demand also included 3,474 technicians, 1,689 cooks, 1,058 welders, and 2,130 electricians.
Semi-skilled workers were equally sought after, with 38,274 drivers and 1,859 masons securing jobs overseas.
Officials attribute the surge in overseas employment to the increasing confidence of global employers in the capabilities of Pakistan’s workforce. With significant demand from Gulf and European labor markets, Pakistan’s workers are finding new opportunities to contribute their skills to countries around the world.
This trend signals the expanding global recognition of Pakistan’s talent pool, offering skilled workers more prospects to enhance their careers while supporting Pakistan’s economy through remittances.
