Nearly 22,000 Pakistani nationals were deported from Gulf countries within a little over four months, according to figures presented in Pakistan’s National Assembly.
The data, covering the period from March 1 to July 13, 2026, showed that a total of 21,951 Pakistani citizens were deported from Gulf states for a range of reasons, including visa violations, overstaying, begging and the use of forged documents.
The issue was raised during the Question Hour of the National Assembly, where details were provided in response to a question submitted by MNA Hameed Hussain.
Visa Violations and Absconding Cases Highlighted
The official figures revealed that thousands of Pakistanis were also deported in absconding cases.
At least 4,628 absconders were deported, while 1,294 Pakistani nationals were jailed and 968 were blacklisted.
Other cases involved:
- 1,155 deportations linked to lost passports
- 689 cases involving visa violations
- 342 cases of refused entry into Gulf countries
The figures underline the strict immigration enforcement measures being implemented across Gulf states, where authorities continue to take action against residency, employment and entry violations.
Saudi Arabia Reports the Highest Number of Absconding Cases
Saudi Arabia accounted for a significant share of deportations involving absconders, according to the information presented in Pakistan’s Parliament.
The country deported 3,921 Pakistani nationals classified as absconders. The UAE, meanwhile, deported 636 Pakistani absconders.
Saudi Arabia also deported 1,924 Pakistanis for visa-related offences.
The UAE recorded 347 deportations involving visa violations, while Oman reported 295 such cases.
The figures reflect the growing focus across Gulf countries on enforcing residency and employment laws.
Nine Pakistanis Deported from UAE Through Interpol
The parliamentary response also stated that nine Pakistani nationals were deported from the UAE through Interpol.
While the majority of the reported deportations were related to immigration and residency matters, the data highlighted the range of legal and administrative reasons that can lead to removal from Gulf countries.
For Pakistani expatriates and job seekers, the figures serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining valid documentation and complying with local laws.
Gulf Countries Continue Immigration Enforcement
Millions of Pakistani nationals live and work across the Gulf region, making the issue of visas and immigration compliance particularly important.
Authorities in Gulf countries regularly conduct inspections and enforcement campaigns targeting illegal employment, expired visas, overstaying and other residency violations.
Absconding cases can also carry serious consequences, including deportation, imprisonment and blacklisting.
For residents, maintaining a valid visa and residency status remains essential. Workers are also required to comply with employment regulations and avoid working for employers other than those authorised under their legal work arrangements.
Begging and Forged Documents Also Cited
The parliamentary figures identified begging and forged documentation among the reasons for deportation.
The issue of organised begging has received increasing attention in several Gulf countries, where authorities have warned against using visit visas or other entry permits for illegal activities.
Forgery of travel, employment or identification documents can also result in serious legal consequences.
The latest figures demonstrate that immigration violations can have long-term effects beyond deportation, with some individuals facing blacklisting that could restrict future entry into Gulf countries.
What Pakistani Expats Should Know
Pakistani nationals living in the Gulf should ensure that they:
- Maintain valid residency and work permits
- Avoid overstaying after visa expiry
- Follow local employment and labour regulations
- Keep passports and official documents secure
- Do not engage in begging or other illegal activities
- Use only legitimate and verified travel and employment documents
- Understand the consequences of absconding from employment
Failure to comply with immigration laws can result in fines, detention, deportation and restrictions on future travel.
Conclusion
The deportation of nearly 22,000 Pakistani nationals from Gulf countries in just over four months highlights the scale of immigration enforcement across the region.
Visa violations, absconding, overstaying, begging and documentation problems were among the reasons recorded in the cases.
With Gulf countries continuing to enforce residency and employment regulations, expatriates are being urged to remain fully compliant with local laws and maintain valid legal status throughout their stay.
For Pakistanis planning to travel, work or live in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman and other Gulf states, proper documentation and compliance with immigration rules remain essential to avoiding legal trouble and deportation.
