'Tap into ME's tech markets'

Tech strategists and professionals are calling for the enhancement of Pakistan's local Information Technology (IT) landscape, with an eye on leveraging the tech revolution being witnessed in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. These countries are experiencing the return of the Bayt Al-Hikma (House of Wisdom) from the Islamic Golden Age, following the fall of Baghdad in 1258 when the Mongols destroyed the institute, throwing all its books and papers into the Tigris river. The scientific advancements of the Islamic Golden Age were never fully revived. However, Arab leaders are now eager to harness the power of science and technology for regional development.

The UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar are shifting their economies away from fossil fuels, diversifying into the tech sector. The UAE spends just 1.5% of its GDP on research and development (R&D), Qatar only 0.7%, and Saudi Arabia 0.5%.

Syed Azfar Hussain, Project Director at NIC Karachi, highlighted that Pakistan's tech companies have a golden opportunity in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, where digital transformation is reshaping industries. Many Pakistanis have played an instrumental role in establishing tech firms in these countries, while a strong diaspora holds key leadership positions. With thousands of talented individuals graduating from top Pakistani institutions in technology and engineering, the country boasts a rich and competitive talent pool. To succeed, Pakistani companies must form strategic partnerships, provide cost-effective yet world-class solutions, and align with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. By leveraging local expertise and the influential Pakistani diaspora, Pakistan's tech ecosystem can thrive in the fast-growing Middle Eastern digital economy, opening new avenues for innovation and business growth.

He added that Pakistan's tech industry can capitalise on this huge opportunity to grow by creating products that appeal to both local and global markets. Rather than focusing solely on services, companies should prioritise scalable tech products in areas like fintech, cybersecurity, industrial automation, and AI-driven solutions.

To attract international clients and investors, Pakistani firms need to connect with global markets and adhere to international standards. Emerging technologies such as generative AI, blockchain, and Internet of Things (IoT) can help companies differentiate themselves by offering smarter, more innovative solutions. By investing in research, user-friendly design, and data-driven strategies, Pakistan can move beyond outsourcing and establish itself as a hub for groundbreaking technology, opening doors to new markets and investment opportunities worldwide.

"When it comes to services and training of the government, more hands-on learning, internships, and intensive boot camps are required to make graduates job-ready. Encouraging freelancing through platforms, as well as startups and digital entrepreneurship supported by the Pakistan Startup Fund and incubation centers like the National Incubation Centers (NICs), will help create opportunities for young talent. By aligning education with global tech trends and fostering industry-academia collaboration, Pakistan can transform its young workforce into a strong tech export base and solidify its position in the digital economy," he said.

Saad Shah, an IT exporter with business in the Middle East, noted that the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region is a booming market for Pakistan's IT companies, particularly in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, which offer substantial opportunities.

Shah pointed out that many new companies in Saudi Arabia are establishing enterprise solutions, software, and networking applications. With the government focusing on Artificial Intelligence (AI), innovation will be key to accessing high-value projects in both the public and private sectors.

The UAE is a dynamic and highly competitive market, with numerous medium to large-sized clients offering projects. While Pakistani companies are entering the market on a limited scale, Shah believes that joint ventures and partnerships can help them provide comprehensive end-to-end solutions to large industries and business tycoons in the UAE. The cost of operations and the mobility of Pakistani staff make these markets more accessible compared to high-end markets like the US and UK. This makes it easier to scale up operations and exports in the GCC region, particularly in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, with the added advantage of innovation and brand-building. Additionally, Shah pointed out that the Dubai royal family founded Emirates in 1985 with support from Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai. The airline's first flight was from Dubai to Karachi, Pakistan, on October 25, 1985. The airline's call sign, EK, stands for "Emirates through Karachi," a tribute to Karachi and Pakistan's role in the airline's early days.