In a significant move aimed at expanding employment opportunities for Pakistani women abroad, the Overseas Employment Corporation (OEC) has announced that it will soon begin exporting skilled female beauticians to Saudi Arabia.
According to state media reports, this initiative comes in response to a formal request by a private beauty and wellness firm in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The company is seeking qualified female professionals in various areas of beauty and personal care, further cementing the long-standing labor and economic ties between Pakistan and the Gulf region.
A New Avenue for Skilled Female Workers
While Pakistan has a history of sending professionals such as doctors, engineers, and technicians to Gulf countries, this new development opens up employment opportunities for women in the beauty and wellness sector — a field witnessing significant growth in Saudi Arabia, especially after recent reforms that support greater female participation in the workforce and service industries.
The OEC, working under the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, has detailed the categories for which Saudi firms are actively hiring:
- Senior Hairdressers
- Nail Technicians (gel and acrylic application)
- Eyelash Specialists
- Makeup Artists
- Waxing and Bleaching Experts
- Wig Technicians
These roles reflect a growing demand in Saudi Arabia’s personal care sector as grooming and beauty services gain popularity among women, driven by a rise in salons, beauty clinics, and fashion-related businesses across the Kingdom.
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
As per the OEC announcement, Pakistani women interested in applying must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Minimum of three years’ professional experience in the respective beauty service field
- Age under 40 years
- Proficiency in modern beauty techniques and tools
- Good communication skills (knowledge of basic English or Arabic is a plus)
Preference will be given to candidates who have previously worked in high-end salons or spas, particularly those with certifications or diplomas from recognized beauty academies.
Government-Supported Employment Abroad
This initiative is part of the Pakistani government’s broader strategy to expand legal, safe, and skilled overseas employment avenues, especially for women. The OEC has committed to facilitating a transparent recruitment process, including assistance with documentation, visa processing, pre-departure orientation, and employment contracts.
A representative from the OEC stated:
This program will not only empower skilled Pakistani women economically but also promote a positive image of Pakistan’s workforce in the international beauty and wellness industry.
Strengthening Pakistan-Saudi Relations
The employment initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a national strategy aimed at economic diversification and modernization, including increased participation of women in the workforce. Pakistan, being a close ally of Saudi Arabia, has consistently been a key contributor of manpower to the Kingdom, with hundreds of thousands of Pakistani workers already employed across various sectors.
Saudi firms have reportedly shown a strong interest in hiring trained Pakistani beauticians, citing their dedication, work ethic, and professional skills.
Economic Impact and Future Prospects
Sending skilled beauticians abroad not only boosts Pakistan’s foreign remittances, which are a vital source of the country’s economy, but also creates a pathway for women to achieve financial independence and global exposure.
This opportunity could also encourage more young women to pursue training in cosmetology and beauty therapy, knowing that reputable international employment opportunities exist through official government channels.
According to OEC officials, if this pilot program proves successful, more international placements for women in the service sector may be introduced in other Gulf countries, particularly in hospitality, healthcare, and wellness industries.
Pakistan’s decision to export female beauticians to Saudi Arabia is more than just a labor agreement—it’s a bold step toward women’s empowerment, skilled workforce export, and enhanced Pakistan-Saudi bilateral cooperation. Applications for the positions are expected to open soon, and interested candidates are encouraged to apply through the official OEC website to avoid fraud and ensure a secure recruitment process.
