Indian Diaspora in the Gulf
Economic and Policy Significance
The Indian diaspora in GCC countries (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman) is one of the largest migrant worker concentrations globally. These workers span skilled, semi-skilled, and unskilled categories and remit a substantial share of their earnings to India.
- Indian diaspora in Gulf/Middle East: approximately 9 million workers and residents (a recent report's figure of 8 million refers specifically to GCC-resident workers).
- GCC remittances to India: ~$51.4 billion (FY 2024–25), representing ~38% of India's total remittance inflows.
- Key sending states: Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Bihar, Rajasthan.
- Remittance-to-GDP significance: Remittances contribute ~3–4% of India's GDP annually; for Kerala, the share is significantly higher (~20% of GSDP).
- Bilateral Labour Agreements: India has signed bilateral agreements with several GCC countries for worker protection (wage protection systems, standard employment contracts).
- Ministry of External Affairs: Manages diaspora issues through the Pravasi Bharatiya Division; the e-Migrate system tracks Indian workers going to ECR (Emigration Check Required) category countries.
- Emigration Check Required (ECR) passport holders: Workers in ECR category (generally those with below Class 10 education) require the e-Migrate system's clearance before going to notified countries including all GCC states.
- A conflict scenario that displaces Indian workers en masse from the Gulf could create a remittance shock, household income disruption, and return migration pressure on states like Kerala and UP.
● Tracked since March 01, 2026 · last seen April 21, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes
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