Pakistan has seen more than 21,951 of its citizens deported from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries since March 2024, the National Assembly was informed on Thursday. Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry told the house that the figures were compiled from deportations in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain during this period.

The minister did not specify the exact breakdown by country or the reasons behind the deportations, but the scale of the numbers has raised concerns about the challenges faced by Pakistani workers in the Gulf. The deportations come amid stricter labour and residency regulations in several GCC states, which have tightened rules for foreign workers in recent years.

Where the deportations happened

- Saudi Arabia: The largest number of deportations, though the exact figure was not disclosed.
- UAE: Significant numbers reported, with labour reforms in Dubai and Abu Dhabi cited as contributing factors.
- Qatar: Strict enforcement of labour laws has led to multiple deportations.
- Kuwait: Known for stringent residency and work permit checks.
- Bahrain: Smaller numbers compared to its neighbours but still notable.

Why are Pakistanis being deported?

While the government has not provided a detailed breakdown, common reasons for deportation in the Gulf include:
- Expired work visas or residency permits
- Violation of labour laws (e.g., working for an employer not listed on the visa)
- Failure to renew documents on time
- Criminal records or legal disputes
- Overstaying after job termination

Labour experts say many deportations stem from administrative oversights rather than criminal activity. For instance, workers who switch jobs without updating their visas or those who miss deadlines due to bureaucratic delays often face deportation.

Impact on Pakistani families

For the families of those deported, the financial and emotional toll can be severe. Many workers send monthly remittances back to Pakistan, and sudden deportation can disrupt entire households.
- Rs 25,000–50,000: Average monthly remittance from a Gulf worker to Pakistan.
- Thousands of dependents: Affected families often rely solely on these remittances.

The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) reports that remittances from the Gulf make up a significant portion of Pakistan’s foreign exchange earnings. A sudden drop in these inflows could strain the country’s balance of payments.

What is the government doing?

The federal minister told the National Assembly that the government is engaging with GCC authorities to address the issue. However, no specific measures were announced to prevent future deportations.

  • Overseas Employment Corporation (OEC): Provides pre-departure briefings to workers.
  • Pakistan missions in Gulf countries: Offer limited consular support, but resources are stretched thin.
  • Awareness campaigns: The government has urged workers to verify their documents before travelling.

Critics argue that more needs to be done to protect Pakistani labourers, including:
- Stronger bilateral agreements with Gulf states to safeguard workers' rights.
- Simplified visa and residency processes to reduce administrative errors.
- Legal aid for deported workers to help them challenge unfair deportations.

What should affected workers do?

If you or someone you know has been deported from a Gulf country, here’s what you can do:
- Contact the nearest Pakistani embassy or consulate for assistance.
- Check the Overseas Employment Corporation (OEC) website for guidance: www.oec.gov.pk
- Verify your documents before applying for future Gulf jobs to avoid similar issues.
- Seek legal advice if you believe your deportation was unjust.

What’s next?

The government has not indicated whether the deportation numbers will rise or fall in the coming months. However, with Gulf states continuing to enforce stricter labour laws, Pakistani workers must remain vigilant about their legal status.

  • Monitor updates from the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development.
  • Follow advisories from the Pakistan Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment (PBEOE).
  • Stay informed about changes in Gulf labour policies that may affect Pakistani workers.

The deportation figures underscore the fragility of Pakistan’s labour market in the Gulf, where thousands of families depend on remittances. Without stronger protections and clearer communication from authorities, more workers could face the same fate.

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