Over 278,000 Pakistanis Moved Abroad for Employment by May 2026

A total of 278,536 Pakistanis traveled overseas for work by May 2026, according to data released by the Bureau of Emigration. The figures show that Pakistani overseas employment continues to attract a large number of workers seeking better job opportunities and higher incomes in foreign countries.

The Bureau of Emigration reported that 1,284 doctors left Pakistan for overseas jobs during the period. In addition, 2,341 engineers and 487 nurses also moved abroad to pursue employment opportunities in various countries.

The report revealed that drivers made up a significant portion of overseas workers, with 52,652 leaving the country for jobs abroad. Laborers accounted for the largest group, with 172,006 workers traveling overseas for employment.

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Saudi Arabia remained the top destination for Pakistani workers, receiving 159,144 individuals. The United Arab Emirates followed with 50,574 workers, while 30,312 Pakistanis moved to Qatar. A further 86 workers went to Hong Kong, and 23 traveled to Iran for employment.

According to the Bureau of Emigration, 1,234 Pakistanis moved to the United Kingdom and 357 to the United States for work by May 2026. Experts say that Pakistani overseas employment not only helps reduce unemployment but also contributes significantly to the country’s economy through remittances sent back home.