The National Assembly Standing Committee on Finance has approved the “Financial Institutions Amendment Bill 2026”, under which banks could be granted expanded powers to take possession of properties belonging to loan defaulters in Pakistan.According to details, the proposed legislation introduces stricter measures against individuals who fail to repay bank loans in Pakistan, including property seizure and public disclosure of defaulters’ identities.Under the amendment bill, banks would be authorised to take possession of a borrower’s property in cases of loan default. However, financial institutions would first be required to issue three notices within a 90-day period before initiating any action.Bilal Azhar Kayani clarified that banks would need to formally approach the government before taking possession of a property.The bill also proposes stricter conditions for house financing customers. Properties acquired under house financing schemes would not be allowed to be rented out to third parties. In addition, the legislation proposes the publication of the defaulter’s name and residential address in newspapers.Committee member Javed Hanif objected to the provision, arguing that publicly disclosing names and addresses was against human dignity.The proposed law also includes a provision allowing borrowers an opportunity to settle their liabilities. If a defaulter manages to arrange the required funds, they may submit a written request to the bank within 30 days to seek resolution of the matter.Commenting on the bill, the committee chairman observed that while the legislation offers extensive protection to banks, it appears to provide limited safeguards for consumers.Committee members further warned that imposing tougher conditions on ordinary citizens seeking house financing could increase financial hardship for borrowers.

State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has revised its foreign exchange regulations to simplify the process for non-resident legal heirs seeking to transfer inherited assets outside Pakistan.Under the updated framework, Succession Certificates and Letters of Administration issued by National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) will now be officially accepted alongside court-issued documents as valid proof for remitting inherited funds abroad.The revised instructions were issued through a circular addressed to the presidents and chief executives of all authorised foreign exchange dealers and involve amendments to Paragraph 3 of Chapter 16 of the Foreign Exchange Manual.According to the SBP, the changes are intended to facilitate overseas beneficiaries inheriting assets from estates of deceased individuals located in Pakistan.Under the updated rules, applications relating to remittance of inherited wealth and estate distributions to beneficiaries residing abroad must still be submitted to the central bank along with specified supporting documents.Applicants will be required to provide details including the deceased person’s name, nationality, place of residence at the time of death and, where applicable, the duration of residence in Pakistan.The SBP said applicants must also submit either relevant sections of a probated will or, in cases where no will exists, a Letter of Administration or Succession Certificate issued by NADRA or a court.The documents must be properly authenticated by the issuing authority, a notary public, judge or magistrate, whether in Pakistan or the country where the deceased had been residing.A complete statement outlining the deceased’s assets within Pakistan must also accompany the application.The SBP further clarified that any amount not approved for remittance would be placed in a blocked account under the name of the executor or administrator at a Pakistani bank.Authorised Dealers have been instructed to ensure full compliance with the revised regulations.

LAHORE: The Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) has announced the launch of Sales Tax Services at e-Khidmat Markaz to facilitate citizens and businesses in submitting sales taxes more conveniently.In a statement, PITB said that e-Khidmat Markaz is continuing to expand its portfolio across Punjab by introducing new public services.Under the new facility, businesses and service providers can now fulfill their sales tax obligations through a secure and streamlined process at e-Khidmat centres.According to the statement, the service is aimed at supporting tax compliance, reducing hassle, and ensuring timely payments with ease and confidence.The services are available from Monday to Friday between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM.PITB said e-Khidmat Markaz currently offers more than 165 services from 21 government departments through 15 centres operating across 14 districts of Punjab. Since its launch, the initiative has served more than 10 million citizens.The board noted that e-Khidmat Markaz was initially established in Rawalpindi in 2015 as a single centre offering only 17 services. It has since expanded significantly, with Lahore now having two centres operating in two shifts for public convenience.Earlier, the Punjab government also introduced a facility allowing citizens to obtain marriage certificates through designated e-Khidmat service centres.The marriage certificate service, launched under PITB, is currently available at 15 e-Khidmat centres across the province.Read More: Online marriage certificate service launched in PunjabThe initiative aims to simplify the marriage registration process by providing a faster and more secure system without lengthy procedures or unnecessary complications.

The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) is preparing to introduce a premium meet-and-assist service at Islamabad International Airport, aimed at providing enhanced facilitation for passengers through a fully digital, pre-booked system.According to officials, the service will only be available via advance booking and will operate through an online system.Passengers will be required to reserve the facility at least six hours prior to arrival or departure.The service will be accessible to all travellers, including senior citizens, business professionals and diplomats, and will offer assistance from home pick-up to airport drop-off, said Director Commercial Rabia Salma.She added that passengers using the service will benefit from fast-track boarding and immigration clearance, although passport and travel document handling will not be included under the service rules.Additional facilities will include access to CIP lounges, premium assistance, buggy transport and wheelchair support where required. PAA launches major facility at Islamabad airport The pricing structure has been divided into tiers, with a platinum package priced at 100 US dollars, gold at 75 dollars and silver at 50 dollars, according to PAA officials.Authorities further stated that the Pakistan Airports Authority is expected to generate around 23,000 US dollars monthly from the service, along with a 10 per cent revenue-sharing arrangement.Earlier in March, the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) introduced a new facility to improve passenger services at Islamabad International Airport, with the launch of a currency exchange counter in the international arrivals lounge.The facility was formally inaugurated by Director Commercial, Rabia Salma, in the presence of the airport manager and members of the commercial team.

KARACHI: A detailed investigation into cocaine dealer Anmol alias Pinky is continuing in Karachi, with authorities claiming significant disclosures about the scale and structure of her alleged drug network.According to investigators, the accused reportedly admitted that narcotics worth more than Rs20 million were being sold monthly in Karachi. It is further claimed that consignments were transported from Lahore using intercity bus services.During interrogation, Anmol Pinky stated that when her identity card was blocked, she opened a bank account under the name of “Sameer” to facilitate financial transactions.She also allegedly revealed that drug-related payments were received and transferred through Easypaisa accounts, with a franchise outlet in Gulistan-e-Johar used to handle money movement.Officials said another bank account was opened under the name of an individual identified as Zeeshan to manage financial flows linked to the network.Investigators further noted that mobile SIMs used in the operation were registered under the names of individuals identified as Fazal and Saba Bibi.The accused allegedly claimed that an officer identified as Ehsan had previously arrested her brother multiple times but released him after receiving bribes. She also claimed that more than Rs100 million in total bribes were paid to various officials, the investigation revealed. “Cocaine Queen” Anmol Pinky Latest News & Updates According to probe report, Anmol Pinky’s former husband’s two brothers are lawyers, and that narcotics were allegedly stored in their chambers to avoid detection, while protection was reportedly secured through financial payments to certain police stations including Darakhshan, Gizri and Boat Basin.The suspect also alleged that police personnel identified as Kamran had detained her riders and accepted approximately Rs20 million in bribes before releasing them.Investigators say the network operated in a highly organised and cautious manner, relying on SIM-less mobile phones and digital platforms for communication.According to the probe, riders had no direct contact with buyers, while coordination was handled exclusively through Anmol Pinky. Buyers reportedly did not know who would deliver the narcotics, and riders were also unaware of the end recipients.Officials said riders would often leave narcotics at designated locations, take photographs and share live location data with the accused, who would then forward the details to customers.Sources added that individuals caught within the network were immediately cut off and permanently removed from the operation, indicating a strict internal security system within the syndicate.

KARACHI: The Met Office has forecast extremely hot weather in several cities of Sindh as temperatures could soar to 45 Celsius on Thursday in Jacobabad, Sukkur, Larkana and Hyderabad while 44 Celsius in Khairpur district.Karachi is experiencing hot and humid weather as maximum temperature in city could be recorded at 36 Celsius in the port city.A hot and dry weather spell continuing in most of the areas with extremely hot weather in various parts of Sindh.The doctors have advised citizens to observe caution in extremely hot conditions and avoid exposure to the Sun, particularly in peak heat hours of day and get hydrated by drinking maximum water and beverages.The extreme heat claimed 14 lives in Karachi in early days of May.The rainfall in Lahore has provided much needed relief from the hot weather and the city has partly cloudy weather today.Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast rainfall in southern Punjab, northern Baluchistan and some parts of Kashmir, with strong winds and thunderstorm.

LAHORE: Nadeem Afzal Chan, Central Secretary Information of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), on Thursday said the country’s political system cannot function without the PPP, warning against attempts to sideline the party.Speaking to ARY News, Chan said the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) had already been pushed out of the system and questioned how authorities could exclude the country’s second-largest political party as well.“You have already thrown PTI out of the system. How will you remove PPP too?” he asked.Responding to a question about alleged pressure on the PPP, Chan said rumours were circulating regarding a possible 28th Constitutional Amendment, changes to the NFC Award, and the creation of new provinces.He stressed that the prevailing political system could not continue without the PPP, especially in view of the worsening law and order situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.“PPP has maintained stability in Sindh. If you exclude PPP from the system, how will you control the situation in Sindh? How will you deal with Sindhi nationalists?” he warned.Chan said the PPP had already endured pressure from institutions including NAB, anti-corruption departments, and parts of the judiciary over the years.Commenting on the situation in Punjab, he claimed that several government officials in almost every district had allegedly been “picked up” and later released after giving statements, adding that many subsequently avoided legal proceedings.He also criticised the governance structure, saying the government was being run in a bureaucratic rather than democratic manner.Discussing the country’s broader situation, Chan said inflation and unemployment were rising while the agriculture sector was nearing collapse.He further stated that although the Crime Control Department (CCD) had helped improve security conditions, it was not a permanent solution to underlying issues.Chan also predicted that PTI founder Imran Khan could be released this year.“The PTI founder is likely to be released during this year,” he said, adding that any resolution would require dialogue with political parties and should not be viewed as a “deal.”“When political parties engage in dialogue, it is not called a deal. The Charter of Democracy was also the result of political dialogue,” he added.

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has sought a detailed report regarding the arrest and investigation of drug dealer Anmol Pinky, ARY News reported on Thursday, quoting official sources.As per details, sources said the report includes comprehensive details about her alleged network as well as all cases registered against her.In Lahore, the Crime Control Department (CCD) has formally initiated a detailed investigation into the case and is preparing to further probe the FIR registered against the accused.Officials indicated that Anmol Pinky will be transferred to Lahore in connection with the case registered there for further legal proceedings.According to sources, the accused’s brother, identified as Riyaz, has already been arrested in connection with the case. However, it was noted that Anmol Pinky had not previously been declared a proclaimed offender.police investigations have revealed that Anmol Pinky was allegedly involved in drug supply activities in Lahore along with her brother. “Cocaine Queen” Anmol Pinky Latest News & Updates Investigators have also summoned former police inspector Rana Ikram, who is reportedly the ex-husband of the accused, for questioning in relation to the case.CCD officials are expected to question the former officer as part of efforts to trace the full scope of the alleged drug trafficking network and establish links connected to the investigation.

QUETTA: The Vice Chancellor and Pro-Vice Chancellor of Gwadar University have been reported missing while on their way to Quetta from Gwadar by road, family sources said.The university's Vice Chancellor Dr Abdul Razzaq Sabir and Pro-Vice Chancellor Dr Syed Manzoor Ahmed went missing while the two high education officials were traveling from Gwadar to Quetta in an official car, family sources said.Gwadar University sources have apprehended that the two academicians have likely been abducted with the official car in Mastung.Deputy Commissioner Mastung Bahram Saleem has confirmed the missing incident and said that he was in contact with the families of missing officials."It is being said that the contact with them was cut off when they reach in surroundings of Mastung," DC said.

Another case of a woman’s harassment came to light in Karachi. The incident occurred in Korangi area of the metropolis few days back, where a suspect riding a motorcycle sexually harassed a woman.The CCTV footage acquired by ARY News shows a woman standing in a street when she is approached by a motorcyclist, who commits an inappropriate act while riding past before fleeing the scene.According to sources, the incident took place a few days ago in Korangi No. 6, Sector 51-B. Viewer's discretion is advised Police said they have initiated hunt to trace the suspect with the help of CCTV footage and have launched an investigation into the incident.However, officials noted that no formal complaint has yet been lodged with the police regarding the case.Authorities added that a case will be registered once a complaint is submitted, after which legal proceedings will be initiated.Read more: Another incident of girls’ harassment surfaces in KarachiEarlier in October 2023, the local police arrested a principal of a private school located in Karachi’s Saudabad for allegedly harassing the female students.According to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Korangi, the accused principal identified as Azam was allegedly harassing the female students of class 10.Meanwhile, on the complaint of the father of one of the students who became the victim of the principal’s harassment, the police swiftly took action and arrested the principal.

KARACHI: A prisoner who escaped from Malir Jail in Karachi earlier this month has been recaptured after five days, police said on Thursday.According to Malir Police spokesperson, Syed Tahir Naveed alias “Polka” was arrested near Landhi Railway Station during a joint operation carried out by a federal intelligence agency team, Shah Latif police, and jail police officials.The inmate had escaped from Malir Jail on May 9, 2026, during a special event held inside the prison to mark the anniversary of Marka-e-Haq. Police said the suspect managed to flee by mingling with guests attending the ceremony.Tahir Naveed Polka had been shifted to Malir Jail in connection with kidnapping and murder case of a trader Rehan. A case against him was registered at Shah Latif Town police station.Police said further investigation is underway to determine the details of the escape and whether any facilitators were involved.According to police records, Tahir Naveed was arrested by Jauharabad Investigation Police and sent to jail custody on April 27.It may be noted that Tahir Naveed alias Polka was previously arrested in the high-profile murder case of journalist Wali Babar, but was later acquitted by the court.Read More: Karachi police arrest another female drug trafficker Nargis alias Malka

Investigators have claimed that alleged female drug dealer Anmol aka "Pinky" burned her own hands with acid prior to her arrest in an attempt to destroy forensic evidence.According to investigative sources, the accused allegedly boasted that no one else in the country could produce cocaine matching her “quality”. Authorities claim she manufactured some of the most expensive cocaine available on the market, branding it as “Gold” and selling it in specially designed packaging.During the raid conducted to apprehend her, officials reportedly recovered a large number of small boxes and bottles bearing the English wording: “Queen Madam Pinky Don”.Preliminary inquiries have also suggested that the accused had a taste for red wine and allegedly ordered grapes worth Rs500,000 before distilling them herself to produce homemade wine.Sources claimed that she would personally test newly manufactured cocaine to assess its quality before authorising its packaging and distribution.According to the investigation report, Anmol Pinky had allegedly established separate secret laboratories in both Lahore and Karachi. Officials said her network was more active in Karachi, while larger-scale narcotics production was reportedly carried out in Lahore.Investigators further claimed that the suspect had been preparing to introduce a new and more expensive variety of narcotics within the next two to three months, but the alleged plan was disrupted following police action.The probe has also revealed claims that the accused regularly distributed large sums of money in charity. Police sources claimed that she would set aside millions of rupees daily for distribution among the needy, and in one reported incident, allegedly handed Rs7 million to a beggar.According to officials, approximately 15 cases involving narcotics, money laundering and other serious offences have been registered against Anmol Pinky across Karachi and Lahore.Authorities stated that an FIR had previously been registered against her by the Anti-Narcotics Force in 2019 on charges related to drug trafficking, and that she had remained a proclaimed offender in multiple police cases.Officials maintained that the Anmol Pinky’s network was highly influential and well organised, making action against her particularly difficult.

Concerns circulating on social media about watermelons being injected with chemicals to make them artificially red and sweeter have caused hesitation among consumers, but nutrition expert Ayesha Nasir says such claims are largely exaggerated.Speaking to ARY News, the nutrition expert explained that watermelon is an important summer fruit that helps prevent dehydration and heatstroke due to its high water content. However, she advised consumers to take certain precautions while consuming it.According to Ayesha Nasir, injecting chemicals into watermelons is not as simple as commonly portrayed online because the fruit’s outer rind is naturally thick and hard. She noted that if a watermelon had actually been injected, a clear puncture mark would likely be visible on its surface.She further explained that watermelon naturally contains “lycopene”, a red pigment that may leave a faint pink or reddish stain on tissue paper. Therefore, not every red mark should be linked to chemicals or artificial colouring. Watermelon deaths case mystery deepens The nutritionist also warned against purchasing pre-cut watermelon from markets, saying it can pose health risks. She explained that germs present on the outer rind may contaminate the fruit if unhygienic knives or contaminated water are used during cutting.She advised consumers to buy whole watermelons, wash them thoroughly at home and cut them using clean utensils.Ayesha Nasir also cautioned that while some people prepare watermelon juice or milkshakes by mixing the fruit with water or milk, such drinks may not suit everyone’s digestive system.She said children, elderly individuals, pregnant women, and people suffering from IBS or diabetes should consume such beverages carefully, as they may lead to stomach-related issues, diarrhoea or digestive discomfort.The nutritionist added that although watermelon milkshakes are popular in some countries, they may not be suitable for every individual, making moderation and caution important.

The Karachi Development Authority (KDA) ’s Director of State & Enforcement Shakeel Ahmed Khan led a grand operation in two sectors of Surjani Town, Karachi, resulting in the demolition of temporary and permanent structures as well as various illegal booking offices. As a result, more than 25 acres of government land have been successfully recovered.The operation against illegal constructions and encroachments on over 100 acres of state land in Sectors 10 and 13 of Surjani Town, Karachi, was launched on Wednesday, said a statement.During the anti-encroachment operation of KDA, miscreants offered strong resistance, pelting stones and engaging in intense firing, which created significant challenges for the State & Enforcement department staff.However, with the support of law enforcement agencies, the operation was continued without interruption.Director General Karachi Development Authority (KDA), Asif Jan Siddiqui has reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to carrying out impartial and sustained actions against the land mafia and encroachers.Director General Asif Jan Siddiqui has emphasized that no illegal occupation or encroachment on Karachi Development Authority (KDA) owned land will be tolerated under any circumstances.

KARACHI: New revelations have emerged regarding alleged cocaine trafficker Anmol alias “Pinky,” as investigators and crime reporters highlight her suspected drug network, multiple cases, and alleged facilitation within law enforcement lapses, ARY News reported. According to senior ARY News crime reporter Nazeer Shah, the case has now been escalated into a high-profile investigation after media coverage brought renewed attention to the scale of the alleged network and its impact on society, particularly among young people in Karachi.Authorities claim that at least 12 cases have been registered against Anmol Pinky so far. However, despite these cases, she has reportedly not been arrested in several key investigations. One major case was registered by the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) in Clifton in 2019, which remains unresolved after several years. Officials now say the ANF is expected to seek short-term custody remand to advance the investigation.Investigators also referenced earlier developments, including an alleged incident in 2018 involving the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), where she was reportedly detained but later released under controversial circumstances. Officials suspect that facilitation and corruption may have played a role in allowing her continued operations.The reported network is believed to operate largely online, with only a small number of logistical handlers based in Karachi. Sources claim that a few riders were employed to manage deliveries, with salaries and operational instructions handled digitally to avoid direct exposure.Authorities further suggest that a broader crackdown is now being prepared, with instructions issued to take strict action against all individuals linked to the network, including possible facilitators. The investigation is also expected to expand to include law enforcement accountability and institutional oversight.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJOEIAZ_5jw Investigators have also claimed that Anmol Pinky was allegedly working on introducing a new narcotic substance and had reportedly been developing it for the past three months. According to sources, she had allegedly completed the formula for the new drug shortly before her arrest. Officials further revealed that the accused allegedly preferred using narcotics and alcohol produced by herself and was known to favor only her own “branded” products. Authorities are now investigating whether Anmol Pinky had established an independent production chain for manufacturing and distributing specialized narcotics.

KARACHI: Commissioner Karachi Hassan Naqvi on Wednesday issued a notification regarding new flour prices for the city, ARY News reported.According to the notification, the wholesale price for No. 2.5 flour has been fixed at Rs 110 per kg, with the retail price set at Rs 113 per kg.For fine flour, the wholesale rate is now Rs 118 per kg, while the retail price is Rs 121 per kg.Additionally, the price for flour mills (chakki flour) has been fixed at Rs 145 per kg.Commissioner Naqvi stated that the new rates are effective immediately. He directed all shopkeepers to display the official rate lists at prominent locations within their shops.The Commissioner warned that strict legal action will be taken against those who violate the new pricing or fail to display the price lists as instructed.Earlier in March this year, Flour mill owners had announced a significant reduction in flour and fine flour prices following the arrival of the new wheat crop in the market.The price of wheat has fallen by Rs. 10 per kilogram, and the decrease has led to a cut of up to Rs. 12 per kilogram in flour and fine flour prices.According to the Flour Mills Association, the prices of wheat have dropped from Rs. 95 to Rs. 85 per kilogram. As a result, the price of flour No. 2.5 in Karachi has been reduced from Rs. 107 to Rs. 95 per kilogram.Likewise, the price of fine flour has also seen a notable decline, falling from Rs. 126 to Rs. 114 per kilogram.Experts believe that the increased availability of the new wheat crop in the market will help stabilise prices, offering much-needed relief to consumers affected by rising inflation.

RAWALPINDI: Pakistan Army killed seven terrorists during a sanitisation operation in the Nosham area of Barkhan district, Balochistan, while five soldiers, including a field officer, embraced martyrdom during an intense exchange of fire, Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Wednesday.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9TN-3-A48LcAccording to the military media wing, on the morning of 13 May 2026, troops of the Pakistan Army and Frontier Corps Balochistan commenced an area sanitization operation at general area Nosham of Barkhan District to eliminate terrorists of Indian backed Fitna Al Hindustan.During the operation, a group of terrorists was located and engaged by troops. During fire exchange seven terrorists of Indian backed Fitna Al Hindustan were sent to hell. Weapons, ammunition and explosives were also recovered from the killed terrorists.However, during intense fire exchange, five brave sons of soil including a field officer met the ultimate sacrifice and embraced Shahadat. Shuhada include Major Tauseef Ahmed Bhatti (age 31 years, resident of District Pakpattan), Naik Fida Hussain (age 36 years, resident of District Sukkur), Sepoy Zakir Hussain (age 32 years, resident of District Skardu), Sepoy Suhail Ahmed (age 21 years, resident of District Khanewal) and Sepoy Muhammad Ayaz (age 24 years, resident of District Rahim Yar Khan).Sanitization operation in the surroundings continue to eliminate any other Indian sponsored terrorists present in the area.Relentless Counter Terrorism campaign under vision “Azm e Istehkam” (as approved by Federal Apex Committee on National Action Plan) by Security Forces and Law Enforcement Agencies of Pakistan will continue at full pace to wipe out menace of foreign sponsored and supported terrorism from the country.Also Read: Brave citizen sacrifices life to foil suicide attack in Attock

KARACHI: A Sindh Food Authority inspection team came under violent attack during a raid in Gulshan-e-Iqbal Block 2, Karachi, while carrying out a routine food safety inspection, ARY News reported.According to reports, the shopkeeper allegedly assaulted inspection staff and hurled abuses during the operation. Officials said a female officer was pushed during the altercation, while the clothes of another staff member were torn in the attack.The authority confirmed that the accused shopkeeper, identified as Sabir, was taken into custody shortly after the incident. Karachi police shifted the suspect to the lock-up, and a formal case is being registered against him.The shop involved in the incident, located in Karachi’s Gulshan-e-Iqbal area, was sealed by authorities after inspectors reportedly found serious food safety violations, including the use of expired and unhealthy cooking oil.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2z40-w64xRkSindh Food Minister Makhdoom Mehboob-uz-Zaman took notice of the incident and directed strict legal action against those involved in the assault.He said attacks on government teams enforcing food safety laws in Karachi are unacceptable and warned that those taking the law into their own hands would face strict consequences.The minister also reaffirmed that food inspection operations would continue across Karachi to ensure the supply of safe and quality food to citizens, adding that authorities remain committed to cracking down on violators.

Dubai/Karachi, May 13, 2026 – The UAE Dirham (AED) strengthened modestly against the Pakistani Rupee (PKR), trading at 75.85 PKR today compared to last week’s levels around 76.44 PKR in earlier trading. This movement reflects ongoing stability in the Dirham backed by the UAE’s strong economic position, while the Rupee continues to face domestic pressures.Valuation Process of AED Against PKR Currency valuation in the forex market is primarily driven by supply and demand. Key factors include: Economic Indicators: The UAE benefits from diversified revenues (oil, tourism, trade, and finance), high foreign reserves, and a stable peg to the US Dollar (around 3.67 AED = 1 USD). This peg provides predictability and investor confidence. Trade and Remittances: Strong trade surpluses in the UAE support the Dirham. Pakistani remittances from the large expat community in the UAE generate demand for PKR, but Pakistan’s trade deficits and import reliance often pressure the Rupee. Monetary Policies: The UAE Central Bank maintains a conservative, stable approach. In Pakistan, the State Bank of Pakistan manages interest rates and interventions to control inflation and support the PKR. Global Influences: Oil prices, geopolitical stability in the Gulf, and overall investor sentiment toward emerging markets play significant roles. The recent modest appreciation of the Dirham highlights these dynamics amid relatively stable global conditions. Market data shows the AED/PKR pair has traded in a relatively tight range recently, with today’s rate at 75.85 PKR reflecting minor gains for the Dirham.Impact of the Rise For Pakistani Expatriates: A stronger Dirham means remittances from the UAE convert into more Pakistani Rupees, providing welcome support to families back home. For Importers: Pakistani businesses importing from the UAE may face slightly higher costs in Rupee terms. Broader Economy: The movement underscores the resilience of the UAE economy versus ongoing challenges in Pakistan, such as inflation management and reserve building. It may also influence cross-border investment and trade flows between the two countries. Brief Introduction to AED and PKR The United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED) is the official currency of the UAE, introduced in 1973. It is pegged to the US Dollar and subdivided into 100 fils. Known for its stability, it is widely used in the Gulf region and international transactions, with banknotes in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 AED. The Pakistani Rupee (PKR) is the official currency of Pakistan, managed by the State Bank of Pakistan. Introduced in 1947, it is subdivided into 100 paisa (though paisa coins are rarely used). Symbolized as ₨ or Rs, it serves domestic transactions across the country, with common notes including 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000, and 5,000 PKR. Its value is more volatile and influenced heavily by domestic economic conditions.

KARACHI, May 13, 2026: The Saudi Riyal (SAR) traded at Rs74.42 against the Pakistani Rupee (PKR) in today’s open market, according to leading currency dealers in Karachi. The selling rate remained around Rs74.99. The pair continues to stay firmly locked in the same exceptionally narrow, low-volatility channel it entered in early January 2026 — now spanning more than four months of remarkably flat price action. Today’s unchanged level keeps the rate significantly below the 2025 mid-year high of Rs76.03 (July peak) and near the softer territory last consistently observed in late October 2025.Remittance lifeline under prolonged pressure The Saudi Riyal continues to serve as the single most important monthly income source for millions of Pakistani households. Workers in Saudi Arabia’s construction, healthcare, hospitality and domestic sectors keep the remittance corridor active and reliable. Saudi Arabia retains its position as the top remittance-origin country, contributing $913.3 million in May 2025 alone — the largest single-country inflow. Cumulative remittances from July 2024 to May 2025 reached $34.9 billion, reflecting a strong 28.8% year-on-year increase. At today’s rate of Rs74.42, every 1,000 Riyals sent home equals Rs74,420 — a gradual but persistent decline from earlier 2025 levels. While still providing essential support for school fees, medical treatment, groceries, utility bills and household expenses, the prolonged softness is putting quiet but mounting pressure on remittance-dependent families amid ongoing inflation.Economic implications of today’s rate A Riyal trading around Rs74.40–74.50 generates opposing forces: Remittance-receiving families face a slow but steady reduction in real purchasing power. Importers of Saudi crude oil, refined products and petrochemicals continue to enjoy lower costs in rupee terms. Pakistan’s trade balance gains modest indirect relief from cheaper imports. Foreign exchange reserves (above $11 billion as of late 2024) are still being steadily supported by these inflows, helping the State Bank manage inflation and external debt obligations. The softer Rupee also helps keep Pakistani exports (rice, textiles, leather, surgical instruments, fresh produce) attractive on international markets.Quick reference: the two currencies Saudi Riyal (SAR) — subdivided into 100 halala, rigidly pegged to the US dollar (≈ 3.75 SAR = 1 USD), managed by SAMA for maximum stability. Pakistani Rupee (PKR) — symbol ₨, operates under a managed float supervised by the State Bank of Pakistan, influenced by inflation, trade balance and — most importantly — remittance volumes. The SAR–PKR pair has now spent more than four months in this unusually compressed range — one of the longest periods of sustained low volatility in recent memory. With overseas Pakistani worker outflows remaining robust and seasonal drivers (Hajj/Umrah travel, fiscal year-end bonuses) still providing support, the remittance corridor continues to be one of Pakistan’s most reliable economic lifelines. A decisive break from this range would likely require a meaningful shift in global dollar strength, oil prices or domestic reserve dynamics. For the time being, the Riyal at Rs74.42 remains a quiet but critical pillar for millions of households — even as each paisa of erosion is increasingly noticed. Sources: State Bank of Pakistan, Forex Association of Pakistan, open-market dealer quotes