Karachi: Workers’ remittances to Pakistan increased by 10.5 percent to USD 26.5 billion during July–February FY26, compared with USD 24 billion in the same period of FY25, according to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan.
The increase represents an additional USD 2.5 billion in inflows during the first eight months of the fiscal year. On a monthly basis, remittances reached USD 3.3 billion in February 2026, up 5.2 percent from USD 3.12 billion in February 2025, though slightly lower than USD 3.464 billion recorded in January 2026.
During February, the largest inflows came from the United Arab Emirates at USD 696.2 million, followed by Saudi Arabia at USD 685.5 million, the United Kingdom at USD 532 million, and the United States at USD 319.5 million.
For the first eight months, Saudi Arabia remained the largest source of remittances, sending USD 6.168 billion, up 4.6 percent from USD 5.89 billion in the corresponding period last year. The UAE ranked second, with inflows rising 12 percent to USD 5.44 billion.
Analysts say continued growth in remittances is helping ease pressure on Pakistan’s external account and supporting the country’s foreign exchange reserves. Remittances remain one of the largest sources of foreign exchange and help finance a significant portion of the trade deficit.
The central bank noted net official outflows in January, while foreign investment inflows showed a marginal increase, indicating limited improvement in external financing. It expects remittance inflows to rise further in March, supported by higher transfers ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr 2026.
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