Saudi Arabia, UAE Account for Most Pakistanis Deported from Gulf Countries
More than 21,900 Pakistanis deported from gulf countries between March 1 and July 13, 2026, according to figures presented to Pakistan’s National Assembly.
The data showed that 21,951 Pakistanis were formally deported during the period for various immigration and legal reasons.
Saudi Arabia recorded the highest number, with 15,495 Pakistani nationals deported, while the UAE accounted for 3,802. Other Gulf countries also recorded deportations:
- Oman: 1,606 Pakistani nationals deported
- Bahrain: 521 Pakistani nationals deported
- Qatar: 429 Pakistani nationals deported
- Kuwait: 97 Pakistani nationals deported
The figures were provided in a written response during Question Hour in Pakistan’s National Assembly. Authorities said the deportations involved several categories, including visa and residency violations, illegal stays, drug-related offences, absconding and other breaches of local laws.
The data also showed that 4,628 absconders were deported, while 1,294 Pakistanis were sent back after being jailed. Another 968 were blacklisted, while 689 cases involved visa violations. Some 1,155 deportation cases were linked to lost passports, while 342 Pakistanis were refused entry into Gulf states.
The Pakistani government clarified that the figures cover formal deportations reported to Pakistani authorities. They do not include Pakistanis who returned voluntarily or left Gulf countries using their own valid passports.
The figures highlight the importance for Pakistani residents and workers in the Gulf of maintaining valid residency and travel documents and complying with local immigration and legal requirements.
