Overseas Pakistanis send $3.47bn remittances in January ahead of Ramadan

Karachi, February 10, 2026 – Overseas Pakistanis sent $3.47 billion in workers’ remittances during January 2026, according to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on Tuesday.

The central bank data showed that remittance inflows in January registered an increase of over 15 percent compared with $3.0 billion received in the same month last year, reflecting strong confidence in Pakistan’s formal banking channels and improved transfer mechanisms.

Ramadan boost drives remittance surge

Market analysts attributed the sharp rise in remittances to increased fund transfers ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, as overseas Pakistanis typically send higher amounts to support their families’ expenses related to Ramadan and Eid-ul-Fitr.

They noted that seasonal factors, along with a stable exchange rate environment and enhanced digital remittance services, played a key role in boosting inflows.

Remittances up 11.3% in 7MFY26

On a cumulative basis, workers’ remittances reached $23.2 billion during the first seven months (July–January) of fiscal year 2025-26, posting a growth of 11.3 percent compared to $20.9 billion recorded in the same period of the previous fiscal year, the SBP said.

The consistent growth in remittance inflows continues to provide crucial support to Pakistan’s external sector, helping stabilize foreign exchange reserves and narrow the current account deficit.

Country-wise remittance inflows in January 2026

According to SBP data, remittance inflows during January 2026 were primarily sourced from:

• Saudi Arabia: $739.6 million

• United Arab Emirates: $694.2 million

• United Kingdom: $572.1 million

• United States: $294.7 million

Economists believe that sustained growth in remittances will remain a key pillar for Pakistan’s economy, particularly amid global economic uncertainty, rising commodity prices, and evolving geopolitical dynamics.