Pakistan has received $2 billion from Saudi Arabia to help manage a growing external financing gap linked to an upcoming debt repayment to the United Arab Emirates, according to the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP). The funds were credited on April 15, 2026.
The inflow comes as Pakistan prepares to repay $3.5 billion to the UAE this month. This repayment has increased pressure on the country’s foreign exchange reserves which stood at around $16.4 billion at the end of March. The payment represents a significant portion of Pakistan’s reserves.
Under its $7 billion IMF programme, Pakistan is aiming to increase reserves above $18 billion by June 2026.
Officials say external support from friendly countries remains important to meet these targets and maintain financial stability.
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb confirmed that Saudi Arabia has also agreed to provide an additional $3 billion in deposits.
He said the existing $5 billion Saudi deposit arrangement will now be extended for a longer period instead of being rolled over annually.
The finance minister shared these details during a visit to Washington, where he attended the World Bank–IMF Spring Meetings.
He also held discussions with Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Jadaan and other officials, along with representatives from the SBP and Pakistan’s embassy in the United States.
Saudi Arabia has consistently supported Pakistan during periods of economic stress, including a major assistance package in 2018.
Meanwhile, Pakistan is also considering requesting an increase in its IMF bailout programme.
Officials are discussing the possibility of securing an additional $2 to $2.5 billion under the existing arrangement due to rising economic pressures linked to global and regional developments.