Practical Dimensions of the Pak–Saudi Relationship
Pakistan is set to deploy 50,000 troops to Saudi Arabia, where they will take full responsibility for safeguarding the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. Along with this, five missile regiments will be deployed, supported by one of the most advanced air defense systems to strengthen communication, Pakistan will also set up an air communication network, backed by a recent $496 million agreement with China to acquire 20 satellites.
Pakistan will play a key role in safeguarding Saudi Arabia’s vital oil pipeline routes to strengthen security, a joint Pak-Saudi Command and Control system will be set up, supported by an advanced Air Communication System, the entire region will be monitored round the clock.
The defence structure will include 13 Ababeel Missiles along with ballistic and cruise missile regiments, ensuring an immediate response to multiple external threats. Additionally, Pakistan Air Force’s JF-17 Thunder and J-10C fighter jets will be deployed as part of the defence network in Saudi Arabia.
In case of an attack on either strategic partner, there will be no delay or need for formal requests. The Joint Command and Control System will automatically mobilise the combined forces of both countries for a swift response.
Pakistani officials will arrive in Saudi Arabia within the next few days to begin work, and the entire project is expected to be completed within a year, Insha’Allah.
This development is expected to significantly reshape the security landscape of the Middle East, which has long been destabilized by Israeli and American interference.
For Pakistan, it marks the first real opportunity to secure a strong position in the region, especially at a time when US influence is declining due to its unwavering support for Israel.
Meanwhile, Israel itself is facing growing isolation and condemnation over its brutal war in Gaza.
The move will also provide some hope and reassurance to the oppressed Palestinians, who have been largely abandoned by both the Arab League and the wider Muslim Ummah. At the same time, it will serve as a counterweight to India’s expanding socioeconomic presence, political maneuvering, and espionage activities across the Arab world.
This project isn’t just short-term—it’s a long-term commitment. Think of the economic advantages for the 50,000 troops, the pilots, and the hundreds of technical experts and skilled workers involved. The salaries and allowances provided by Saudi Arabia will be far higher than what they would normally earn in Pakistan.
For many, it will also be an honor and a blessing from ALLAH to be chosen for the defense of the Holy Mosques, Harmain and Sharifein. Those who have not yet performed Hajj or Umrah will finally have their heartfelt wish fulfilled.
I still recall when two Armoured-Infantry Brigades, along with armoured regiments, were sent to Saudi Arabia in 1982, and Pakistani officers were deputed to train Saudi forces. At the time, officers earned around Rs. 80,000 a month there, compared to just Rs. 6,000 back home. When they returned, their standard of living had noticeably improved.
But unlike those earlier collaborations, this time the partnership is truly strategic and all-encompassing. It extends beyond the military to include cultural, religious, economic, social, intelligence, and diplomatic cooperation.
In exchange for Pakistan’s military support, Saudi Arabia will provide financial assistance to help fund both current and future development projects, with the goal of making Pakistan economically self-reliant.
Saudi Arabia also holds significant influence over the Afghan Taliban and is expected to use its position to persuade the interim government in Kabul to curb cross-border terrorism into Pakistan.
Additionally, given its close ties with India, Saudi Arabia could play a constructive role in reducing India’s hostility toward Pakistan.
Pakistan can play a key role in easing tensions between Saudi Arabia and Iran, especially after the rapprochement recently facilitated by China. This new environment can pave the way for increased foreign direct investment from oil-rich Arab states, particularly in Pakistan’s SIFC projects and the Special Economic Zones of CPEC.
The establishment of a petrochemical oil refinery in Gwadar now seems more realistic than ever. China has already welcomed this partnership with satisfaction, and Russia, along with the wider Global South and the Arab League, is also expected to view it positively. Interestingly, the United States has not raised any objections either. This silence suggests that Washington—especially under Trump, as it grows increasingly frustrated with Netanyahu’s policies—does not mind if Israel’s influence is counterbalanced.
The scope of this emerging partnership is likely to grow, with other GCC states expected to gradually move away from the unreliable American security umbrella and instead seek a more dependable security framework under Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Over time, its strength and success could inspire other regional Muslim nations to come together under a joint defense platform resembling NATO.
Such a defense pact could serve as a first step toward uniting the divided Muslim world. However, its success will depend on consistent effort, guided by sincerity and honesty of purpose.
