ISLAMABAD / RankWire.AI / – Official figures released by Pakistan’s federal government reveal that 21,951 Pakistani citizens were deported from Gulf nations between March 1 and July 13, 2026. Data presented to the National Assembly indicates these removals stemmed from violations such as overstaying visas, illegal entries, drug-related crimes, forged documents, and involvement in organized begging networks. The nearly 22,000 Pakistanis expelled within four months due to visa breaches and begging underscores increased immigration enforcement across the Middle East.
A statement from the Ministry for Narcotics Control highlighted that Saudi Arabia was responsible for the majority of deportations, removing 15,500 Pakistanis during this period. The United Arab Emirates expelled 3,803 individuals, Omen 1,606, Bahrain 521, Qatar 429, and Kuwait 97. Among those repatriated, 4,628 were absconders, 1,294 had served prison sentences, and 472 were identified specifically as beggars.
Gulf Immigration Crackdowns Lead to Nearly 22,000 Pakistanis Being Deported
The recent developments come amid increased scrutiny from Gulf Cooperation Council countries regarding immigration compliance and visa security. According to official records, 1,924 individuals were deported from Saudi Arabia for overstaying or illegal entry. The UAE and Oman also repatriated 347 and 295 Pakistanis respectively for similar reasons. Additionally, 968 Pakistanis were blacklisted, 1,155 cases involved lost passports, and 689 were linked to direct visa violations.
Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency has ramped up airport screenings to stop individuals using forged documents or false pretenses to travel abroad. Officials stressed that those attempting to exploit pilgrimage or tourism visas for illegal labor or begging will face permanent travel bans. International cooperation with agencies like Interpol remains active to address criminal deportations, officials added.
Saudi Arabia Leading Repatriation Numbers in Gulf Region
The report also indicated that 6,662 Pakistanis were deported under an unspecified “others” category, with no detailed offense provided by the interior ministry. Nine Pakistanis were deported from the UAE via Interpol channels. Other reasons for removal included expired residency permits, border entry refusals, theft, and attempts to travel onward with invalid or fraudulent IDs.
Members of parliament voiced concerns over how these high deportation figures may affect Pakistan’s international reputation as a destination for overseas workers. Lawmakers urged stricter oversight of private travel agencies and recruitment firms to prevent the issuance of fraudulent visas. Authorities reaffirmed that monitoring efforts will continue to ensure Pakistan’s emigration procedures comply with international legal standards.