The number of Pakistanis travelling abroad for employment has declined amid the impact of the Gulf war, according to Overseas Employment Promoters Expert Adnan Paracha.
Speaking on Monday, Paracha said only 381,000 Pakistanis travelled abroad for employment during the first eight months of the current fiscal year 2026.
He said more than 700,000 Pakistanis went overseas for jobs during the previous fiscal year, showing a significant decline in overseas employment this year.
Overseas Employment May Reach 650,000
Paracha estimated that around 650,000 Pakistanis could leave the country for employment opportunities during the current fiscal year.
However, he said the ongoing regional conflict had affected employment opportunities in Gulf countries, which remain a major destination for Pakistani workers.
He urged the federal government to take immediate measures to increase Pakistan’s overseas employment quota in Gulf countries.
According to him, expanding access to Gulf labour markets could help more Pakistanis secure jobs abroad and support the country’s economy.
Overseas Pakistanis Remain Key Economic Support
Paracha described overseas Pakistanis as an important national asset because of their contribution through foreign remittances.
He said remittances provide crucial support to Pakistan’s economy and help the country manage its financial challenges.
Foreign currency inflows from overseas Pakistanis also contribute to strengthening Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves.
Remittances Support External Account
Pakistan continues to rely heavily on workers’ remittances to support its external finances.
In July, the country’s current account deficit fell by 38% year-on-year to $328 million, according to the figures cited in the report.
Paracha stressed that maintaining access to international labour markets is important for both Pakistani workers and the national economy.
He called for stronger government efforts to secure greater employment opportunities and quotas for Pakistani workers in Gulf countries.
