Pakistani information technology (IT) service providers, startups, and exporters are poised to secure up to $500 million in investments by showcasing their capabilities at the Gulf Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX) 2024, to be held in Dubai from October 14-18. Industry representatives and officials announced this ambitious target on Thursday, highlighting the country’s growing presence in the global tech landscape.
GITEX, recognized as one of the world’s largest technology exhibitions, brings together industry leaders, innovative startups, government officials, expert investors, and corporate buyers. This year, Pakistani IT firms have received a significant boost, as Pakistan has been declared the event’s “Tech Destination of the Year” following their successful participation in previous editions.
Sajjad Mustafa Syed, Chairman of the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA), emphasized the magnitude of the event. “GITEX 2024 will see representation from 180 countries, over 200,000 IT service buyers, 65,000 top-level executives, and 7,000 multinational companies,” he said. “We are confident that this will generate up to $500 million in leads for Pakistan.”
Prominent Pakistani exhibitors at the event include Quixas Technology Pvt Ltd, Wateen Solutions, AutoSoft Dynamics, KODERLABS, Dynamics 360, Creation Next, and Bits Collision, according to P@SHA’s Secretary-General Nadeem Malik.
Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Pakistan’s State Minister for IT, hailed the event as a testament to Pakistan’s commitment to innovation, technology, and global collaboration. “We are excited to showcase Pakistan’s exceptional tech talent and immense potential on this prestigious platform,” she said.
Muhammad Umair Nizam, Senior Vice Chairman of P@SHA, also highlighted the industry’s significant role in Pakistan’s economy. “The IT sector remains one of the few industries in Pakistan with a trade surplus, boasting a 77 percent margin. It has the potential to generate $5 billion in foreign exchange by FY25,” he said.
Nizam added that the IT industry could help bridge Pakistan’s trade deficit, stabilize the economy, and create employment opportunities through sustained growth, innovation, and a focus on entrepreneurship.
