Saudi Arabia has abruptly deported more than 24,000 Pakistani nationals identified as beggars, after a stern warning to Islamabad to curb illegal migration and street begging. The operation, carried out over a two‑week period, underscores the Kingdom’s growing intolerance for undocumented laborers who are perceived to strain public resources and tarnish its international image. While Saudi officials cite security and social order concerns, Pakistani authorities face mounting pressure to address the root causes of irregular migration. This article examines the background of labor migration between the two nations, the diplomatic exchange that precipitated the crackdown, the logistics of the mass deportation, and the broader ramifications for bilateral ties and migrant‑worker rights.
Background of migrant labor in Saudi Arabia
For decades, Saudi Arabia has relied on foreign workers to fill gaps in construction, domestic service, and low‑skill sectors. Pakistan has been a consistent source, contributing an estimated 1.5 million workers to the Kingdom’s labor market in 2023. However, a subset of these migrants, often arriving on tourist visas, turn to street begging—a practice that Saudi authorities deem illegal and socially disruptive.
- Major source countries: Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and the Philippines.
- Key sectors employing migrants: construction, domestic work, retail.
- Official stance: Zero tolerance for undocumented beggars and illegal workers.
The warning from Riyadh to Islamabad
In early January 2025, Saudi officials met with Pakistani diplomats in Riyadh, delivering a clear ultimatum: curb the flow of illegal migrants and beggars, or face “strict measures.” The Saudi Ministry of Interior warned that continued non‑compliance would trigger large‑scale deportations, emphasizing the Kingdom’s commitment to safeguarding public order.
Mass deportation operation
Following the diplomatic warning, Saudi authorities launched a coordinated sweep across major cities, including Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. Over 24,000 Pakistani nationals were identified, detained, and placed on repatriation flights. The operation involved:
- Rapid verification of identity through biometric databases.
- Legal processing at immigration courts.
- Logistical coordination with Pakistani embassies for onward travel.
A table summarises the deportation figures compared with previous years:
| Year | Pakistani nationals deported | Reason cited |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 8,300 | Visa violations |
| 2023 | 12,500 | Illegal work |
| 2024 | 15,200 | Security concerns |
| 2025 | 24,000 | Begging & undocumented status |
Implications for bilateral ties and migrant workers
The deportation wave has strained the long‑standing Saudi‑Pakistani partnership, which traditionally hinges on labor agreements and oil‑related cooperation. Pakistani officials have expressed disappointment, urging Riyadh to consider humane repatriation processes and to engage in dialogue on regularising labour migration. Human‑rights groups warn that abrupt expulsions risk leaving vulnerable individuals without support, potentially exposing them to exploitation during their return journey.
Key concerns include:
- Loss of remittance income for Pakistani households.
- Potential rise in irregular migration routes.
- Increased diplomatic friction over labour‑policy coordination.
Looking ahead: policy shifts and human‑rights considerations
Both governments appear poised to renegotiate the terms of labour mobility. Saudi Arabia is expected to tighten visa vetting, while Pakistan may introduce stricter pre‑departure training and monitoring mechanisms. International observers advocate for a balanced approach that protects public order without compromising the rights and dignity of migrant workers.
In the coming months, the effectiveness of any new framework will be measured by the reduction in illegal entries, the protection of workers’ rights, and the preservation of the economic interdependence that has historically benefited both nations.
Ultimately, the episode highlights the delicate equilibrium between sovereign security priorities and the humanitarian obligations owed to millions of migrant workers who sustain the economies of the Gulf.
Image by: Markus Winkler
https://www.pexels.com/@markus-winkler-1430818
