Mohammad Tanveer
Pakistan made a strong impression at GITEX Global 2025 in Dubai, underscoring its growing influence in the global technology ecosystem through high-level bilateral engagements, a dynamic national pavilion, and the participation of leading tech companies and startups.
High-Level Engagements to Strengthen UAE–Pakistan Tech Collaboration
On the sidelines of GITEX, Federal Minister for IT & Telecom, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, held a series of strategic meetings aimed at expanding Pakistan’s digital and innovation footprint in the region.
The Minister met with H.E. Omar Suwaina Al Suwaidi, Undersecretary at the UAE Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, to discuss enhanced cooperation in digital governance, artificial intelligence, data infrastructure, and startup development. During the meeting, the Minister highlighted key national initiatives including the Digital Nation Pakistan Act, the National Data Exchange Layer, and policies promoting smart governance, cashless economy, and AI integration. Both sides agreed to explore collaborative frameworks in advanced technology, data innovation, and cross-border startup investments.
She also held discussions with Massimo Falcioni, Chief Competitiveness Officer at the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, focusing on deepening digital investment and innovation linkages between Pakistan and the UAE, and exploring opportunities for cross-border technology partnerships.
In another significant engagement, Minister Shaza Fatima met Muneeb Anjum, CEO of AHAD, for an in-depth discussion on advancing Pakistan’s cybersecurity ecosystem. The dialogue centered on strengthening digital trust, implementing robust security frameworks, and expanding public-private partnerships to enhance national cyber resilience and innovation capacity.
Pakistan Pavilion Inaugurated at GITEX Global 2025
The Pakistan Tech Destination Pavilion was officially inaugurated at GITEX Global 2025, marking a milestone in the country’s continued emergence as a leading global technology hub. The inauguration ceremony was led by Federal Minister for IT & Telecom, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, alongside Rana Ihsaan Afzal Khan, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Commerce; Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Pakistan’s Envoy to the UAE; Rafique Ahmed Buriro, Additional Secretary, Ministry of IT & Telecom and CEO Ignite; H.E. Hussain Muhammad, Consul General of Pakistan in Dubai; Brigadier Syed Nadir Hussain Shah, Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC); Abu Bakar, CEO of the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB); Faisal Ratyal, CEO of the National Information Technology Board (NITB); Syed Sajjad, Chairman P@SHA; and Ali Zeb Khan, Trade & Investment Counsellor.
The Pavilion attracted significant attention from industry leaders, international investors, and global media, serving as a hub for B2B meetings, investment networking, partnership announcements, and startup showcases. It featured live demonstrations, innovative tech displays, and business matchmaking sessions, providing a powerful platform for strengthening Pakistan’s footprint in international technology trade.
Speaking at the inauguration, Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja stated: “Pakistan’s presence at GITEX Global reflects our confidence, our capability, and our commitment to a digitally empowered future under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the vision of Digital Nation Pakistan. With a young, skilled workforce and an expanding base of IT exports, Pakistan is ready to play a central role in shaping the global tech economy. The Pakistan Pavilion represents not just our innovation—but our invitation to the world to partner in growth.”
Promoting Startups and Homegrown Innovation
The Ministry of IT & Telecom facilitated the participation of 10 promising homegrown startups at GITEX Global 2025, providing them with a global platform to showcase their entrepreneurial talent, attract investors, and explore international partnerships. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to nurturing innovation and accelerating the growth of Pakistan’s startup ecosystem.
