Pakistan at LEAP 2026 Tech Sector Makes Major Push into the Gulf Market
Pakistan's technology delegation showcases AI and digital innovation at LEAP 2026 in Saudi Arabia.
MALHAM, Saudi Arabia: Pakistan has arrived at LEAP 2026 with one of its largest national technology delegations. The strong presence highlights the rapid growth of Pakistan Technology and its ambitions in Gulf markets.
The Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) is leading the delegation. PSEB operates under Pakistan’s Ministry of IT and Telecommunication.
The delegation is participating under the banner, “Think Tech, Think Pakistan.” Nearly 1,000 delegates and exhibition representatives are attending the event.
LEAP 2026 is being held from August 31 to September 3. The event is taking place at RECC Malham in Saudi Arabia.
Pakistan Pavilion Brings Together Tech Industry
Pakistan’s participation brings together government bodies, industry groups, established technology companies and startups.
Eighteen companies are exhibiting at the PSEB-led Pakistan Pavilion. Their work covers fintech, enterprise AI and cybersecurity.
The companies also represent engineering talent and smart-city technologies.
Ten startups are participating through Ignite, Pakistan’s national technology fund. More than ten Pakistani companies also have independent stalls.
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The delegation includes eighteen representatives from PMTF. Twenty-five representatives from P@SHA are also participating.
The combined presence reflects a coordinated effort across Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
ICT Exports Show Sector’s Growing Strength
Pakistan’s ICT exports reached $4.6 billion in FY2025–26. The figure highlights the growing importance of technology exports.
The Ministry of IT and Telecommunication is seeking new regional opportunities. Federal Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja is leading efforts to expand Pakistan’s digital profile.
The government wants Pakistan to become a technology partner for Gulf markets. The strategy goes beyond traditional outsourced engineering services.
“This is our third year at LEAP,” Shaza Fatima Khawaja said.
She said Pakistan’s growing presence reflected the sector’s strength and potential. She described LEAP as an important platform for building partnerships.
The minister said Pakistani companies could connect with opportunities emerging from Saudi Arabia’s transformation agenda.
Leading Pakistani Companies Join the Event
The Pakistani presence includes major technology firms and emerging startups.
Independent exhibitors include Systems Limited, 10Pearls and Abacus.
Their participation highlights the diversity of Pakistan’s technology sector. It also demonstrates the industry’s growing international reach.
Pakistani firms are increasingly offering AI platforms and cybersecurity solutions. They are also developing fintech products and digital infrastructure.
Vision 2030 Creates New Opportunities
Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure. Smart cities are also central to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 programme.
These developments are creating opportunities for technology companies across the region.
Pakistan is promoting its engineering talent and growing AI sector. Pakistani firms also have experience serving international clients.
Faisal Jeddy, CEO of PSEB, said Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 offered major opportunities.
He said Pakistan had built a strong network of technology professionals. Connecting this talent with Saudi Arabia could benefit both markets.
Live Technology Demonstrations on Display
Visitors to the Pakistan Pavilion are seeing live technology demonstrations.
The displays include AI-powered voice banking systems. Cybersecurity solutions are also being showcased.
Companies are presenting enterprise AI tools for banks and retailers. A live 4D digital twin is also being demonstrated.
The technology is already being used in a smart-city environment.
Several Pakistani companies already work with regional clients. Some also have operations inside Saudi Arabia.
For PSEB and Tech Destination Pakistan, LEAP 2026 is more than a trade show.
The event forms part of a broader strategy to change perceptions. Pakistan wants to be seen as a capable technology partner.
The country’s message is focused on innovation and engineering expertise. Pakistani firms want to help shape the Gulf’s next phase of digital growth.
