DUBAI—The bustling city of Dubai is currently playing host to Gitex Global 2024, the world’s largest tech and startup exhibition, where over 80 Pakistani companies and startups are making their mark. Under the compelling theme of “Global Collaboration to Forge a Future AI Economy,” this event has attracted participants from various sectors, including government officials, investors, researchers, and academics from around the globe.
With a staggering turnout of over 6,500 companies, 1,800 startups, and 1,200 investors from 180 countries, Gitex Global 2024 is poised to be a pivotal platform for artificial intelligence (AI)-driven technological advancements. For Pakistan, this exhibition represents a strategic opportunity to not only showcase its burgeoning tech scene but also to boost IT exports to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, attract foreign investment in startups, and foster collaborations with major IT firms.
Aiming for Growth in the MENA Region
Pakistan’s presence at Gitex is no coincidence; the country aims to tap into the growing tech demand in the MENA region. As Adeel Ijaz Shah, CEO of Ignite—Pakistan’s leading technology fund under the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication—points out, the exhibition serves as an incredible opportunity for startups to display their innovative solutions on a global stage. Ignite has sponsored 10 promising startups for the Expand North Star event at Gitex 2024, covering a wide array of industries including healthcare, aerospace, energy, gaming, and smart cities.
Shah expresses pride in the startups participating, emphasizing their role in representing the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit thriving in Pakistan. “This is not just a showcase; it’s a chance for these businesses to attract international investment and form partnerships that can accelerate their growth,” he says.
Innovations in Healthcare and Beyond
Among the standout startups is AiBL Innovators, led by founding CEO Sannan Gulzar. Focusing on healthcare innovation, Gulzar aims to build connections and collaborate on better healthcare solutions. “With support from MENA region incubators, we hope to attract investments that will help us expand our reach,” he shares, highlighting their existing registrations with incubators in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
Another remarkable entrant is Ace Aeronautics, specializing in drone technology. Founder and CEO Ubaid Raz, an aerospace engineer, elaborates on the diverse applications of their drones, from tunnel and pipeline inspections to military uses. “Our drones, equipped with ultrasonic and robotic sensors, can significantly reduce human risk in hazardous industries like mining,” Raz explains. He views Gitex as a major platform to explore partnerships and secure investments, particularly from the MENA region.
Empowering Women Entrepreneurs
Gitex Global 2024 also shines a spotlight on women entrepreneurs, with participants like Farhat and Maryam from Haripur showcasing their journey in digital financial empowerment. They have successfully transformed their traditional hand-embroidered home textile business into a fully digital enterprise. “Coming to Gitex is encouraging for us. We are empowering other women in remote areas through technology, and seeing the global interest in our work is inspiring,” says Farhat.
Maryam adds, “We are excited to meet people from around the world and hope to take our work to an even bigger platform in the future.” Their success story exemplifies the potential for women in technology and entrepreneurship, reinforcing the importance of inclusivity in the tech sector.
Bridging Gaps and Fostering Collaboration
Gitex Global 2024 serves as more than just a marketplace for products and services; it is a vital meeting point for collaboration and knowledge sharing. The diversity of participants—from seasoned entrepreneurs to budding startups—creates an environment rich in opportunities for innovation.
The event’s emphasis on AI and technological advancements resonates with the current global economic climate, where the integration of technology in various sectors is not just encouraged but essential. The platform allows startups to engage with potential investors, receive feedback from industry experts, and foster partnerships that can lead to scalable solutions.
The Road Ahead
As the exhibition unfolds, the excitement among Pakistani startups is palpable. They view Gitex as a launchpad for future growth, hoping to leverage the connections made and knowledge gained to scale their businesses. The event aligns perfectly with Pakistan’s vision of enhancing its technology landscape and improving its economic standing in the region.
The enthusiasm is matched by optimism from government officials and industry leaders about the potential for these startups to drive innovation and contribute significantly to the national economy. By focusing on collaborative efforts and strategic partnerships, Pakistan is positioning itself as a rising player in the global tech arena.
Conclusion
Gitex Global 2024 stands as a testament to the potential that exists within Pakistan’s tech ecosystem. With its array of startups showcasing innovative solutions and emphasizing the importance of collaboration, the event marks a significant step towards establishing Pakistan as a formidable player in the global tech industry. The focus on renewable energy, healthcare solutions, drone technology, and women’s empowerment highlights the diverse avenues through which Pakistani companies are set to make an impact.
As the event continues, the excitement builds not only for the opportunities it presents but also for the future of technology in Pakistan. With a commitment to innovation and collaboration, the Pakistani delegation at Gitex is poised to make a lasting impression, one that could lead to sustainable growth and transformation in the years to come.
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