Pakistan’s IT Talent Export: Pakistan is significantly expanding its export of high-skilled IT professionals to Saudi Arabia, aligning with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiatives. This surge is driven by increasing demand for expertise in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, automation, and software development.
In 2025, official data revealed that 530,256 Pakistani workers migrated to various Saudi cities, marking a 17% increase from the previous year. This growth reflects the Kingdom’s emphasis on recruiting high-tech professionals, particularly from Muslim countries, to fulfill its ambitious development projects.
Taimor Butt, an IT and cybersecurity expert in Saudi Arabia, highlighted the Kingdom’s efforts to attract skilled workers globally. He noted the attractive relocation packages offered, including visa sponsorship and competitive salaries, making Pakistanis a preferred choice, especially in cybersecurity.
The strategic cooperation between the two countries has been bolstered by recent agreements enhancing defense and economic ties, including the establishment of an AI Hub in Pakistan by Saudi Arabia’s GO Telecommunications Group. This initiative aims to foster knowledge sharing and skill development.
Looking ahead, Pakistan’s Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development plans to increase worker emigration to Saudi Arabia to one million. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to address domestic unemployment and boost remittance inflows, which have surged to $19.7 billion in the first half of the current financial year.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, February 9th, 2026
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