Karachi, May 3, 2025 — Pakistan’s open currency market commenced trading on Saturday with the latest foreign exchange rates setting the tone for both individual and corporate financial decisions. These currency benchmarks, which are closely followed by investors, importers, exporters, and overseas remittance senders, provide a snapshot of the Pakistani Rupee’s (PKR) standing against major global currencies.
The US Dollar (USD), which serves as a global reserve currency and remains the most actively traded in Pakistan’s forex market, opened the day with a buying rate of Rs. 281.35 and a selling rate of Rs. 282.85. The dollar’s rate has shown relative stability in recent sessions, supported by consistent demand from trade and remittance channels, with limited volatility amid an improving domestic macroeconomic environment.
The British Pound Sterling (GBP), historically one of the most valuable foreign currencies, retained its premium position by trading at Rs. 374.4 for buying and Rs. 377.9 for selling. Meanwhile, the Euro (EUR) recorded a buying rate of Rs. 319.05 and a selling rate of Rs. 321.8, reflecting a steady performance as the European Central Bank continues its cautious policy stance amid inflation moderation in the Eurozone.
From the Gulf region, which is vital due to strong labor migration and remittance ties, both the Saudi Riyal (SAR) and UAE Dirham (AED) maintained strong positions. The Saudi Riyal stood at Rs. 75.00 (buying) and Rs. 75.55 (selling), while the UAE Dirham was listed at Rs. 76.55 for buying and Rs. 77.20 for selling. These rates are particularly relevant for expatriates in the Middle East sending remittances to Pakistan, which remain a key source of foreign exchange.
Among the high-value currencies in the Middle East, the Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD) and Omani Riyal (OMR) posted strong numbers. The KWD was quoted at Rs. 908.3 buying and Rs. 917.8 selling, highlighting its position as one of the world’s strongest currencies. These high valuations are often driven by petro-dollar flows and low inflationary environments in their respective countries.
Other notable currencies included the Canadian Dollar (CAD) at Rs. 204.6 (buying) and Rs. 207.0 (selling), and the Australian Dollar (AUD) trading at Rs. 181.5 buying and Rs. 183.75 selling. Both currencies often fluctuate based on commodity price trends and interest rate movements in their home markets.
In Asian currency trends, the Chinese Yuan (CNY), a critical trade partner currency for Pakistan, showed moderate strength with Rs. 37.59 for buying and Rs. 37.99 for selling. The Japanese Yen (JPY) stood at Rs. 1.96 buying and Rs. 2.01 selling, while the Indian Rupee (INR) traded weaker at Rs. 3.23 (buying) and Rs. 3.32 (selling), reflecting regional forex disparities and interest rate differentials.
As global economic conditions continue to evolve with geopolitical developments, monetary policy adjustments, and commodity price swings, these exchange rates will remain under constant watch. For stakeholders including travelers, remittance recipients, and international businesses, staying informed about the currency market is more crucial than ever.
Market experts recommend checking official rates and monitoring real-time fluctuations for informed decision-making, especially during periods of macroeconomic transition or policy shifts.