ISLAMABAD: Saudi Arabia remained the largest source of remittances to Pakistan in November 2025, sending $753 million of the $3.2 billion total received during the month, according to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on Tuesday.
Remittances play a vital role in Pakistan’s external finances, supplying foreign currency that supports household spending, helps reduce the current-account deficit, and strengthens foreign-exchange reserves.
Funds sent from Gulf countries, particularly Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, continue to be a critical component of Pakistan’s balance of payments.
Remittances rose by nearly 9.4% year-on-year, up from the $2.9 billion received in the same month last year. However, on a monthly basis, inflows declined by 7%, compared to $3.4 billion recorded in October.
During the first five months of the fiscal year (5MFY26), remittance inflows stood at $16.1 billion, up from $14.8 billion in 5MFY25, a jump of 9.3%.
Breakdown of remittances
Overseas Pakistanis in Saudi Arabia sent the highest amount of remittances in November 2025, totaling $753 million.
This reflected a 3% year-on-year increase, though it was 10% lower than the $838 million recorded in the same month last year.
Inflows from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) rose 9% year-on-year, increasing from $619 million to $675 million in November 2025.
Remittances from the United Kingdom (UK) reached $481 million, a 4% decline compared to $499 million in October 2025, but still showing a 17% year-on-year rise.
Pakistani expatriates in the United States sent $277 million, marking a 4% decrease year-on-year and an 8% drop from the previous month.
Meanwhile, remittances from European Union (EU) countries stood at $417 million in November, reflecting a notable 29% increase compared to the same period last year.
