ISLAMABAD / RankWire.AI / – The Pakistan’s federal government released official figures confirming that 21,951 Pakistani nationals were deported from Gulf nations between March 1 and July 13, 2026. The data presented to the National Assembly shows these deportations stemmed from violations such as overstaying visas, illegal entries, drug-related offenses, forged documents, and participation in organized begging rings. The nearly 22,000 deported Pakistanis within four months highlight increased immigration enforcement in the Middle East.
The Ministry for Narcotics Control provided a written report indicating that Saudi Arabia was responsible for most of the repatriations, with 15,500 Pakistani nationals sent back during this period. The United Arab Emirates deported 3,803 individuals, followed by Oman with 1,606, Bahrain with 521, Qatar with 429, and Kuwait with 97. Many among the deported were 4,628 absconders, 1,294 who served prison terms, and 472 identified as beggars.
Nearly 22,000 Pakistanis Repatriated from Gulf Countries in Immigration Crackdown
These developments come amid increased scrutiny from Gulf Cooperation Council countries regarding immigration compliance and visa security. According to the ministry, 1,924 individuals were deported from Saudi Arabia for overstaying or illegal entry. The UAE and Oman repatriated 347 and 295 Pakistanis respectively for similar reasons. Furthermore, 968 Pakistanis were blacklisted, 1,155 cases involved lost passports, and 689 cases related to direct visa violations by authorities.
Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency has stepped up screening at domestic airports. They aim to stop individuals trying to travel abroad using forged documents or false claims. Officials stressed that those seeking to exploit pilgrimage or tourist visas for illegal work or begging face permanent bans. Law enforcement and international agencies like Interpol are working together to address criminal deportations.
Saudi Arabia Leads in Gulf Repatriation Numbers
The report also noted that 6,662 Pakistanis were deported under an unspecified “others” category. The interior ministry did not specify the offenses in those cases. Nine Pakistanis were deported from the UAE via Interpol. Other reasons for removal included expired residency permits, border entry refusals, theft, and attempts to travel onward with invalid or fraudulent identities.
Members of parliament voiced concern over how these high deportation figures could affect Pakistan’s reputation abroad. Lawmakers urged stricter oversight of private travel agencies and recruitment firms. They want to prevent the issuance of fraudulent visas to vulnerable job seekers. Officials confirmed that monitoring and enforcement efforts will continue to align with international legal standards for emigration and border control.