In the first quarter of 2025, Pakistan’s workforce made significant strides on the global stage, with over 172,000 workers securing employment abroad, according to the Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment (BEOE). This surge underscores the growing international demand for Pakistan’s skilled and semi-skilled professionals, bolstering the country’s reputation as a hub of talent.
Saudi Arabia led as the top destination for Pakistani workers (121,970), followed by Qatar (12,989), Oman (8,331), and UAE (6,891). Other notable destinations included the UK (1,454), Turkey (870), Greece (815), Malaysia (775), Germany (264), Japan (108), and the US (257), showcasing Pakistan’s growing global workforce presence.
A notable trend in 2025 is the increasing export of highly skilled professionals. Among those employed abroad were 1,479 engineers, 849 doctors, 390 nurses, and 3,474 technicians, showcasing Pakistan’s strength in technical and medical fields. Other in-demand professions included electricians (2,130), cooks (1,689), welders (1,058), and teachers (436), highlighting the diversity of Pakistan’s talent pool. Semi-skilled workers, particularly drivers (38,274) and masons (1,859), also formed a substantial portion of the workforce, meeting the needs of infrastructure and service sectors abroad.
The BEOE attributes this growth to the rising confidence in Pakistani workers’ expertise, particularly in Gulf and European markets. “Our workforce is proving its mettle in competitive global environments,” said a BEOE spokesperson. “From engineers to healthcare professionals, Pakistanis are filling critical gaps worldwide.”
This wave of overseas employment is not only a testament to Pakistan’s skilled labor force but also a vital contributor to the nation’s economy through remittances. Pakistan is set to bolster its global labor market role by enhancing skill development programs, ensuring a competitive workforce to meet rising international demand for skilled professionals.
