Pakistan plans to train and send around 300,000 to 400,000 workers for jobs linked to the FIFA World Cup 2034 in Saudi Arabia.
The aim is to increase overseas employment and improve Pakistan role in the global labor market. Officials say manpower planning is underway based on expected demand for the mega event.
Pakistani workers will likely work in construction, aviation, tourism, and other support services between 2026 and 2034. The plan also focuses on improving skills so workers can compete for better jobs abroad.
During July to March of the 2025-26 financial year, about 215,719 workers received soft skills training. This training focused on improving work ability, productivity, and chances of getting jobs overseas. Government data shows that overseas employment remains a key part of Pakistan’s economic strategy.
In 2025, more than 762,000 Pakistanis registered for jobs abroad. Since 1972, over 15 million workers have left Pakistan for employment in more than 50 countries. Most of them, around 96%, work in Gulf countries, especially Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
Remittances from these workers play a major role in Pakistan economy and are a major source of foreign exchange after exports. Saudi Arabia remained the top destination in 2025, with more than 530,000 Pakistani workers going there.
Read more: Pakistan, Saudi Arabia set to sign major economic agreement
Pakistan is also working on expanding job opportunities in Europe. Italy has offered a quota of 10,500 workers, while talks continue with Germany and Greece for skilled labor agreements. These efforts aim to widen job markets beyond the Gulf region.
At the same time, the government is working on digital systems to improve overseas employment processes. A new immigration framework will connect 14 agencies to make verification faster and easier.
A digital HR pool system is also active, helping with biometric checks and transparent job selection. Officials say these steps will help Pakistani workers access better and higher paying jobs in the future.
