Record Remittances: Overseas Pakistanis Bolster National Economy
Overseas Pakistanis have reached a historic milestone by sending $41.6 billion in remittances during the 2025-26 fiscal year, marking an 8.6 percent growth. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded this achievement, attributing the surge to the growing confidence of the diaspora in government policies. Saudi Arabia and the UAE remained the top contributors, accounting for $9.78 billion and $8.80 billion respectively, while significant inflows were also recorded from the UK, the US, and Italy. With over 15 million citizens living abroadânearly two million of whom reside in the UAEâthis workforce remains the bedrock of Pakistan's financial stability, providing a vital lifeline that sustains their families and the national economy.
These remittances have become the most significant pillar of Pakistan's external financial health, consistently outpacing foreign direct investment and total merchandise exports. This massive influx of capital has proven essential in managing the country's economic challenges, effectively offsetting a widening trade deficit and helping to maintain a current account surplus. As the nation continues to serve as a major global source of laborâwith over 763,000 citizens migrating for employment through official channels in 2025âthe government has reaffirmed its commitment to prioritizing the welfare and protection of these workers through collaborative international initiatives.