Pakistan – Saudi Arabia Relations: A Study of Economic Ties (2000-2022)

Abstract

This study examines the economic dimensions of Pakistan-Saudi Arabian ties from 2000 to 2022, focusing on bilateral trade, financial assistance, foreign investment, labour migration, and remittances. It assesses the strategic significance of the Gulf region for Pakistan and examines the impact of political changes on economic collaboration. The research, utilizing a qualitative methodology based on Liberalism Theory, suggests that economic participation has been cyclical, driven more by immediate crises and political alignment than by long-term strategic planning. Saudi Arabia has sponsored millions of Pakistani workers and provided essential financial assistance; nonetheless, the connection remains predominantly unstructured and underexploited for long-term investment and diverse trade. The document delineates policy conflicts, missed opportunities, and institutional deficiencies that obstruct enhanced economic integration. To enhance strong and balanced economic cooperation between the two nations, it concludes by advocating for institutionalized collaboration, trade diversification, skilled labour exports, and policy continuity.