Pakistan is taking new steps to better prepare its workforce for overseas employment. The government aims to improve skills, professionalism, and job readiness among its citizens seeking work abroad.
Minister for Overseas Pakistanis, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, shared these plans during his official visit to the United Arab Emirates. He said the focus is on setting up reputable training institutions across Pakistan. These institutions will offer soft skills training and pre-departure orientation programs.
According to the minister, these programs will help Pakistani workers adjust more easily to foreign work environments. They will also improve communication skills, workplace behavior, and understanding of local laws. This effort is expected to increase employability in the UAE and other countries.
Pakistan relies heavily on overseas workers for remittances. These remittances play a major role in supporting the national economy. Currently, nearly 10 million Pakistanis are living abroad. Out of this number, more than 1.7 million reside in the UAE.
During his visit, Chaudhry Salik Hussain toured the Pakistan Consulate in Dubai. He reviewed key consular services offered to the community. These services include passport issuance, national identity cards, and welfare support.
He also held discussions with Consul General Hussain Muhammad. The talks focused on improving service delivery for expatriates. The minister stressed the importance of smooth and timely facilitation for overseas Pakistanis.
The government has set ambitious employment targets for the coming years. It plans to arrange jobs for 800,000 Pakistanis abroad in 2026. This is an increase from 740,000 workers sent overseas in 2025.
In January, Pakistan and the UAE agreed on a new “pre-immigration clearance” system. Karachi has been selected as the pilot city for this initiative. The system aims to speed up processing and reduce delays for workers.
During the same visit, Salik Hussain met Rabab Abdullah Al-Osaimi. She is the Director-General of Kuwait’s Public Authority for Manpower. Both sides discussed strengthening cooperation in the labor sector.
Pakistan expressed its readiness to sign a Labour Memorandum of Understanding with Kuwait. The government also requested access to Kuwait’s recruitment portal. This access would help streamline hiring processes.
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Both countries agreed to hold regular consultations. These talks will help improve coordination and expand employment opportunities for Pakistani workers abroad.
