Amid Pakistan’s economic challenges, more than 317,000 Pakistanis moved abroad during the first six months of this year in search of employment opportunities and a better future. A significant proportion of those leaving the country comprise skilled and professional workers.
According to official data, a total of 317,436 Pakistanis travelled abroad for employment between January and June 2026. Those seeking jobs overseas include doctors, software engineers, IT professionals, petroleum and mechanical engineers, paramedical staff, and technicians from various fields.
According to the figures, Saudi Arabia remained the largest employment destination for Pakistani workers, with 183,951 Pakistanis travelling there for work during the first six months of the year.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) ranked second, with 50,773 Pakistanis moving there for employment. Meanwhile, 34,025 travelled to Qatar, 13,329 to Bahrain, and 4,673 to Türkiye for work.
In addition, Cyprus, Greece, the United Kingdom, and Malaysia remained among the important destinations for Pakistani workers.
The report stated that 316,848 Pakistanis registered with the Bureau of Emigration & Overseas Employment, while 588 individuals secured overseas employment through the Overseas Employment Corporation.
Sources said that thousands more Pakistanis are currently completing travel and employment-related documentation in preparation for going abroad. Meanwhile, passengers travelling overseas are also reportedly facing various difficulties at airports.
According to experts, the large-scale movement of Pakistanis abroad for employment is contributing to the outflow of skilled human capital from the country. On the other hand, overseas Pakistanis can play an important role in supporting the national economy through remittances sent back home.
