Islamabad, Feb 11: Pakistani IT firms are making significant strides in expanding their footprint in emerging technology markets, particularly in Saudi Arabia. Over 100 companies specializing in IT and IT-enabled services are actively participating in LEAP 2025, one of the world’s most prominent tech trade fairs, being held in Riyadh.
This event marks the largest-ever representation from Pakistan, with more than 1,000 delegates, including business leaders, government officials, investors, and tech experts.
The Pakistan Pavilion at LEAP 2025 was inaugurated by State Minister for IT and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima.
This annual event serves as a crucial platform where global technology leaders, innovators, and investors converge to shape the future of digital transformation. Pakistani firms are leveraging this opportunity to showcase their latest solutions, forge strategic alliances, and explore investment prospects within the Kingdom.
According to Muhammad Umair Nizam, Senior Vice Chairman of the Pakistan Software Houses Association for IT & ITES (P@SHA), Pakistani tech companies are drawing substantial interest from international firms. This engagement has already led to multiple business agreements, positioning Pakistan as a key player in the region’s technology landscape.
Pakistan’s IT sector has witnessed remarkable growth, with a 100% surge in IT exports in the last financial year. Experts anticipate another record-breaking performance this year, fueled by new business deals across both public and private sectors.
Collaborative efforts by the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), the Ministry of IT, the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), and P@SHA have created an enabling environment for Pakistani firms to expand in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.
Read More:
YouTube Celebrates 20 Years as a Video Powerhouse
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Investment (MISA) has further facilitated Pakistani businesses by establishing a dedicated help desk, streamlining the registration process. As a result, over 100 Pakistani IT companies have successfully registered and commenced operations in the Kingdom.
Pakistan’s inclusion in the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) in 2024 has further strengthened its ties with the regional tech ecosystem. DCO Secretary General Demaah AlYahya visited Pakistan last year, engaging with IT leaders during ITCN Asia 2024 in Lahore.
Saad Shah, CEO of Hexalyze, emphasized that LEAP 2025 serves as a gateway for Pakistani firms to connect with multinational corporations expanding in Saudi Arabia’s industrial and commercial sectors. With Saudi Arabia heavily investing in AI, fintech, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and smart city solutions, Pakistani firms are well-positioned to tap into this lucrative market.
Pakistan’s IT exports surged to $1.53 billion in the first half of the 2024-25 financial year, with projections exceeding $4 billion by year-end. Exports to Saudi Arabia alone reached $50 million last year, underscoring the growing economic partnership between the two nations.
