Worker remittances remain one of the country’s most important sources of foreign exchange, helping support external reserves, household incomes, and domestic economic activity.
New data shows that one destination now stands above all others in terms of remittance contributions.
Sri Lankans employed in Kuwait remitted approximately US$893 million during 2025, making Kuwait the largest source of foreign remittances among overseas migrant workers, according to the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE).
The figures highlight the growing economic importance of the Kuwaiti labour market, both as a destination for migrant workers and as a contributor to foreign exchange inflows.
Nearly 30% of Migrant Workers Choose Kuwait
Speaking on the Ada Derana “Big Focus” program, SLBFE Chairman Kosala Wickramasinghe said nearly 300,000 Sri Lankans leave the country annually for overseas employment.
Of that total, around 80,000 workers, or nearly 30%, choose Kuwait as their destination.
The concentration of workers in Kuwait has translated into strong remittance flows, helping the country emerge as the leading source of foreign exchange earnings from overseas employment.
Qatar and UAE Follow
According to the SLBFE analysis, Qatar ranked as the second-largest source of worker remittances, while the United Arab Emirates (UAE) secured the third position.
Saudi Arabia and the United States were also identified among the leading contributors to foreign remittance inflows.
Other countries making notable contributions include Italy, the United Kingdom, the Maldives, Australia, and Israel.
Labour Migration Remains a Key Economic Driver
The latest figures underscore the continuing role of overseas employment in generating foreign exchange earnings.
With nearly 300,000 workers leaving annually for employment abroad, labour migration remains a major contributor to the economy and a key source of income for thousands of families.
According to SLBFE Chairman Kosala Wickramasinghe, remittances continue to play a vital role in supporting the economy and remain one of the country’s most important sources of foreign exchange earnings.
Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) Daily Exchange Rate Economic & Regulation Weekly Economic Indicators
Last modified: June 20, 2026
