ISLAMABAD: More than 300,000 Pakistanis have left the country for employment abroad during the first six months of 2026, as overseas job opportunities continue to attract workers amid challenging economic conditions.
According to official figures, 317,436 Pakistanis have made travel outside their country for employment purposes between January and June, including doctors, software engineers, IT specialists, petroleum and mechanical engineers, paramedical workers and technicians.
Saudi Arabia has maintained its position as the favourite destination, as 183,951 Pakistani employees went there during the given period. The United Arab Emirates occupied the second position with 50,773 Pakistani workers and Qatar was third with 34,025 Pakistani employees.
As many as 13,329 Pakistanis travelled to Bahrain, while 4,673 people went to Türkiye. Cyprus, Greece, the United Kingdom and Malaysia have been some other destinations where Pakistanis travelled for working purpose.
Records show that 316,848 people have registered through BE&OE and 588 others obtained overseas employment through OEC.
Sources said thousands more Pakistanis are currently completing travel and employment documentation through various government institutions in preparation for seeking jobs abroad. Some travellers have also reportedly faced difficulties at airports.
Experts say the trend has two sides: while the departure of skilled workers raises concerns about a potential loss of human capital, Pakistanis working abroad can also contribute to the national economy through remittances.
