Pakistan received $3.5 billion in overseas workers’ remittances in January 2026, showing a strong 15% year on year growth as compared with $3 billion received in January 2025.
However, on a month-on-month basis, inflows declined 4% from $3.59 billion in December 2025, showing some seasonal moderation.
The State Bank of Pakistan data showed remittances during the first seven months of FY26 (7MFY26) rose 11% year-on-year to $23.2 billion, supported by strong inflows from the Middle East, the UK and Europe, data compiled by Arif Habib Limited shows.
Country-wise data shows Saudi Arabia remained the largest source, with inflows of $740 million in January 2026, up 2% YoY. Remittances from the UAE rose 12% YoY to $694 million, while inflows from the UK jumped 29% YoY to $572 million. Contributions from EU countries surged 36% YoY to $480 million, indicating improving flows from Europe.
Remittances from the US slipped 1% YoY to $295 million, while inflows from other regions climbed 23% YoY to $684 million. Overall, total remittances in January stood at $3.465 billion, compared with $3.003 billion a year earlier.
During 7MFY26, inflows from Saudi Arabia increased to $5.46 billion, up 6% YoY, while remittances from the UAE rose 14% YoY to $4.78 billion. The UK and EU also posted strong growth of 14% and 25% YoY, respectively.
Analysts said the continued growth in remittances is helping support Pakistan’s external account, stabilize foreign exchange reserves and cushion the current account amid elevated import demand and external debt servicing pressures.