Pakistan Remittances Saudi Arabia Foreign Exchange Workers Remittances Economic Growth Money Transfer — Pakistani workers abroad, especially in Saudi Arabia and UAE, send money home, supporting families and the nation’s economy.

Pakistan Sees 16.5% Remittance Growth Led by Saudi Arabia

Workers’ remittances to Pakistan rise sharply in December, led by Saudi Arabia, boosting economy, rupee stability, and foreign reserves.

By News Editor Last updated Jan 9, 2026

Pakistan – (Special Correspondent / Web Desk) – Workers’ remittances to Pakistan saw a sharp rise in December, with Saudi Arabia leading the inflows, according to data released Friday by the State Bank of Pakistan. These funds provide crucial support to the country’s foreign exchange reserves and help balance payments.

Remittances, a major source of hard currency, have remained strong despite global economic uncertainties. They help stabilize the Pakistani rupee, support the current account, and maintain foreign exchange reserves—especially important as the country continues its IMF-supported economic program.

Official State Bank data shows that workers’ remittances reached a record $38.3 billion in the 2024-25 fiscal year (July 2024–June 2025), up from $30.3 billion the previous year. This growth reflects strong labor migration to Gulf countries and more efficient banking channels. Economists note that remittances are vital for Pakistan, as they fund imports, support household spending, and reduce reliance on foreign loans.

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“Workers’ remittances recorded an inflow of $ 3.6 billion during December 2025,” the central bank said in a statement.

“In terms of growth, remittances increased by 16.5 and 12.6% on y/y and m/m basis respectively.”

On a cumulative basis, remittances also posted solid growth in the current fiscal year.

“Cumulatively, with an inflow of $ 19.7 billion, workers’ remittances increased by 10.6% during H1FY26 compared to $ 17.8 billion received during the same period last year,” the statement said.

Saudi Arabia remained the single largest source of inflows in December with $813.1 million, followed by the United Arab Emirates at $726.1 million, the United Kingdom at $559.7 million and the United States at $301.7 million, according to the central bank.

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Millions of Pakistanis work abroad, particularly in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, sending money home to support families and local economies. The government and central bank have encouraged the use of formal channels in recent years, helping improve transparency and sustain inflows.