Archive · 21 Sep 2025
Saudi Arabia: Major Source of Cheap Foreign Loans for Pakistan
Pakistan relies heavily on foreign loans, with Saudi Arabia being a major provider of cheap loans at 4% interest.
These loans, used to help Pakistan's economy, are significantly cheaper than those from China or commercial borrowing.
Pakistan also has other loans, including those from China, UAE, and commercial banks, which come with varying interest rates, some much higher.
The IMF requires these deposits from Saudi Arabia, China and UAE to be maintained.
Pakistan's central bank has had to purchase a substantial amount from the local market to cover maturing debt obligations despite the IMF package.
Saudi Arabia is a major source of low-interest loans for Pakistan.
Saudi loans have a 4% interest rate, significantly cheaper than other sources.
USD 2 billion Saudi cash deposit facility is set to mature in December.
Pakistan's central bank has had to buy over USD 8 billion from the local market to meet debt obligations.
IMF requires key creditors to maintain cash deposits.
- Who
- Pakistan and Saudi Arabia
- What
- Saudi Arabia provides Pakistan with low-interest loans
- When
- Loans have been provided in recent years, with some maturing in December and June of next year
- Where
- Pakistan
- Why
- To address Pakistan's external financing gap.
- Saudi Loan Interest Rate
- 4%
- Cheapest Loan Source
- Saudi Arabia
- Total Deposits from Creditors
- USD 12 billion
- Saudi Cash Deposit Maturity
- December
- Pakistani Foreign Reserves
- USD 14.3 billion (Gross)