UAE Sees Sharp Decline in Pakistani Workforce Migration Amid Visa Policy Shifts; Saudi Arabia Emerges as Top Destination

Karachi:Pakistani workforce migration to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) witnessed a significant decline in the first quarter of 2025, largely due to frequent changes in Emirati visa policies. This shift has made Saudi Arabia the primary destination for Pakistani workers during the same period, according to a report released by JS Global on Tuesday, citing data from the Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment.

The report highlights that the number of Pakistani workers migrating to the UAE fell sharply in early 2025. “Repeated changes in visa procedures and regulations have slowed down labor exports to the UAE,” the report states.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia attracted approximately **70%** of the total Pakistani migrant workforce in Q1 2025, making it the dominant destination. Historically, the UAE has been a major hub for Pakistani labor migration, with an average 35% share in the past. However, its share has now plummeted to just **4%**.

The UAE is one of Pakistan’s key trade partners and a major source of remittances, playing a crucial role in supporting the country’s fragile economy. While both countries have officially denied imposing visa restrictions on Pakistanis, multiple reports in recent months have cited increased visa rejections and heightened scrutiny.

In a positive development, UAE Ambassador to Pakistan, Hamad Obaid Al Zaabi, stated last week that previous issues had been resolved, and Pakistani citizens can now benefit from **five-year visas**, signaling potential improvements in migration facilitation.

JS Global’s report notes that easing the migration process for Pakistanis in the UAE could significantly boost remittance inflows. “With the elimination of informal channels and consistent remittance flows from Saudi Arabia and the UAE, these two countries are expected to account for **more than 50%** of Pakistan’s total remittances,” the report added.

According to the **State Bank of Pakistan**, remittances from overseas Pakistanis hit **$4.1 billion in March 2025**, marking the first time they have crossed the $4 billion mark in a single month. This represents a **37% increase** compared to March 2024 and a **30% rise** from February 2025.

These figures underscore the critical importance of labor migration and remittance stability to Pakistan’s economy, especially at a time of mounting financial challenges.