Pakistani workers are an integral part of the global workforce, contributing significantly to various economies around the world. Here are the top seven countries that employ Pakistani workers, offering them opportunities for better livelihoods and career growth.
List of Countries Recruiting Manpower from Pakistan
1. Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia remains the leading destination for Pakistani workers. The Kingdom attracts many Pakistani laborers due to the high demand in construction, healthcare, and domestic services sectors. According to the Bureau of Emigration & Overseas Employment (BEOE), over 205,000 Pakistanis secured jobs in Saudi Arabia in 2023. The ongoing mega projects like NEOM and the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 continue to create numerous job opportunities for foreign workers.
2. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The UAE, particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi, is another major employer of Pakistani workers for UAE. In 2023, the UAE hired around 121,745 Pakistani workers. The booming sectors in the UAE include construction, retail, hospitality, and transportation. The UAE’s attractive salary packages, tax-free income, and high living standards continue to draw a large number of job seekers from Pakistan.
3. Oman
Oman is a significant destination for Pakistani workers, especially in the construction and services sectors. The country offers a stable working environment and competitive wages, attracting thousands of Pakistani laborers annually. The BEOE reports that in recent years, the number of Pakistani workers in Oman has been steadily increasing due to ongoing infrastructure development projects.
4. Qatar
Qatar is another Gulf country that employs a large number of Pakistani workers. The preparations for the 2022 FIFA World Cup significantly increased the demand for labor in the construction and services sectors. Although the event has concluded, the ongoing infrastructure projects and the country’s growing economy continue to provide ample job opportunities in Qatar for Pakistani workers. According to the BEOE, over 100,000 Pakistani workers are currently employed in Qatar.
5. Malaysia
Malaysia is a popular destination for Pakistani workers, particularly in the manufacturing, construction, and plantation sectors. The country’s favorable work policies and decent living conditions attract many Pakistani laborers. In recent years, Malaysia has seen a steady influx of Pakistani workers contributing to its diverse labor market. The BEOE statistics indicate that Malaysia employs a significant number of Pakistani workers annually.
6. Turkey
Turkey has emerged as an attractive destination for Pakistani workers, mainly in the construction, agriculture, and retail sectors. The country’s diverse job market and cultural similarities make it a favorable place for Pakistani expatriates. Despite economic challenges, many Pakistanis find Turkey a viable option for employment due to the relatively easier visa process and job availability. The BEOE highlights Turkey as a growing market for Pakistani labor.
7. China
China has become a growing market for Pakistani workers, particularly in the engineering, IT, and education sectors. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has opened numerous opportunities for Pakistani professionals and skilled workers. The collaboration between the two countries continues to strengthen, offering Pakistani workers various employment opportunities in China. The BEOE data shows a significant increase in the number of Pakistani workers in China over the past few years.
Top Manpower Recruitment Sectors from Pakistan
The following table highlights the primary sectors where Pakistani workers are recruited for overseas employment:
|
Sector |
Countries |
Common Jobs |
|
Construction |
Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Turkey |
Laborers, Engineers, Technicians |
|
Healthcare |
Saudi Arabia, UAE |
Doctors, Nurses, Medical Technicians |
|
Domestic Services |
Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman |
Housekeepers, Drivers, Nannies |
|
Manufacturing |
Malaysia, China |
Factory Workers, Machine Operators |
|
Agriculture |
Turkey, Malaysia |
Farm Workers, Agricultural Technicians |
|
Retail and Hospitality |
UAE, Saudi Arabia, Turkey |
Sales Assistants, Hotel Staff |
|
IT and Engineering |
China, Malaysia |
Software Engineers, Technicians |
Conclusion
The trend of Pakistani workers seeking employment abroad continues to rise, driven by the need for better financial prospects and career opportunities. These top seven countries not only provide job opportunities but also play a crucial role in enhancing the economic ties between Pakistan and the respective host countries. Pakistani workers’ contributions to these economies are significant, and the demand for their skills and labor remains strong across various sectors.
For Pakistani workers, these countries offer a pathway to improved living standards and career growth, while also benefiting from the diverse skills and dedication that Pakistani expatriates bring to their jobs. The BEOE’s comprehensive statistics and reports underscore the importance of Pakistani workers in these economies and the continuous growth in overseas employment opportunities for Pakistanis.
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