South Asian migrant workers killed as Gulf tensions flare, exposing ‘least protected’ in Middle East

The region’s population is roughly 60 million people, more than half of whom are migrants, with Indians making up about 10 million across the Gulf states. These workers form the backbone of the GCC’s oil- and gas-rich economies, filling essential roles that keep cities running – building skyscrapers, cleaning offices, delivering food, and guarding airports.

According to the International Labour Organization, migrant workers constitute the vast majority of the workforce in the United Arab Emirates alone, accounting for roughly 90% of jobs, particularly in the private sector, and the country hosts about 8.7 million migrant workers, or over 80% of its resident population.

Migrant workers remain vulnerable in Gulf states

Usman Jawed, a researcher on migrant labour, said the vulnerability of these workers becomes especially visible in moments of crisis.

“They get paid less, they have poorer living accommodation, they also live segregated in labour camps,” he said. “If you have rockets exploding overhead and debris falling, and you’re living in accommodation that is not as well protected, then you are more at risk.”

The dangers are not confined to the workplace. The BHRRC noted that many workers find themselves effectively trapped, unable to leave despite the threat of attack. For many South Asian migrants across the Gulf, keeping quiet about Iran’s attacks ensures they are able to pay the bills and feed their families.