Saudi Arabia, Not US, Tops Indian Deportations in 5 Years: MEA Data Reveals

• Ministry of External Affairs data shows Saudi Arabia deported over 49,000 Indians (2021-2025), far exceeding the US.
• In 2025 alone, Saudi Arabia sent back over 11,000 Indians due to 'Saudisation' policies and Iqama violations.
• US deported 3,800 Indians in 2025, a 16-year high, but less than half of Saudi Arabia's annual figure.
• Gulf deportations primarily involve blue-collar workers for visa overstays, labor law breaches, and absconding.
• India strengthens e-Migrate portal and issues advisories to curb deportations, prioritizing humane treatment.

Why It Matters: MEA data confirms Saudi Arabia leads Indian deportations, highlighting Gulf's significant migration challenges.