Overseas jobs in the Middle East are growing in popularity among Bhutanese, but a new survey by the Department of Employment and Entrepreneurship reveals key challenges. The report highlights issues with pre-departure briefings, job satisfaction, and reintegration support. It also has recommendations to improve the Overseas Employment Programme.
The findings of the survey titled “Overseas Employment Programme Monitoring Survey 2025” are based on responses from over 1,050 Bhutanese workers across the four Middle East countries. The majority of respondents were between the ages of 20 and 29, with a higher number of women.
Kuwait and Qatar remain the top destinations for Bhutanese job seekers.
The survey revealed that many cited a lack of career progression, financial challenges, and low wages in Bhutan as the main reasons for seeking employment abroad.
However, according to the survey, despite better job opportunities abroad, Bhutanese working overseas are facing various challenges.
While most respondents acknowledged receiving pre-departure briefings from both the industry, commerce and employment ministry and employment agents, several called for more detailed information on foreign labour laws and working conditions.
Moreover, challenges such as long working hours, low salary increments, and lack of overtime payments were commonly reported.
Furthermore, most respondents expressed their interest in returning to Bhutan, with many planning to start their own businesses or seek government jobs.
Despite this, the survey revealed that more than 60 per cent of the respondents were unaware of Bhutan’s National Reintegration Programme.
The department has recommended stronger oversight on employment agencies, enhanced pre-departure training, such as detailed country-specific information on labour laws, cultural norms, and grievance mechanisms.
Moreover, it also calls for better legal protection for workers and improved reintegration support through increased awareness of the National Reintegration Program through targeted outreach.
The report presents a comprehensive overview of Bhutanese workers currently employed in Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates. The findings are based on responses from over 1,050 Bhutanese workers across the four countries.
Sangay Chozom
Edited by Kipchu
