Parliament for Creating Jobs and Building a $1 Billion Company in Pakistan

LONDON – British Pakistani entrepreneur Shafiq Akbar was honoured at a special ceremony in the UK Parliament for his outstanding contributions to Pakistan’s economy and society. Akbar, known for his trailblazing role in revolutionizing Pakistan’s real estate sector, received a prestigious achievement award from Lord Shaffaq Mohammed, Baron Mohammed of Tinsley, at Westminster.

The award recognises Akbar’s impact in four key areas:

1. Creating thousands of jobs in Pakistan

2. Digitally transforming the country’s real estate industry

3. Leading landmark development projects, including Islamabad’s new downtown and four Marriott Hotels

4. Building a $1 billion PropTech company with a vision to position Pakistan globally in the property technology space

Celebrating Diaspora Impact

Shafiq Akbar’s journey from Pakistan to the UK — and back — stands as a powerful example of global experience fueling local progress. Educated at Queen Mary University and later earning an MPhil from Cambridge University, Akbar spent over 15 years building a successful career in finance and real estate before returning to Pakistan with a mission to modernize its built environment.

In Pakistan, he founded IMARAT Group, Graana.com, Agency21, and AI-driven PropMax.ai, all aimed at making real estate more transparent, efficient, and sustainable. His ventures have since become some of the most influential in Pakistan’s property and tech ecosystems.

UK–Pakistan Partnership in Action

In his remarks, Lord Shaffaq Mohammed praised Akbar’s leadership, stating:

“Shafiq Akbar exemplifies what can be achieved when ambition is rooted in purpose. His contributions reflect the best of what the UK and Pakistan can accomplish together.”

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A Call to the Global Pakistani Community

In his acceptance speech, Akbar dedicated the award to the spirit of collaboration between the UK and Pakistan and the vital role played by the overseas Pakistani community:

“This award represents more than individual recognition — it’s a tribute to the power of connection. Between the UK and Pakistan. Between diaspora identity and service to home. And between vision and real-world results.”

He called on fellow overseas Pakistanis to contribute their knowledge and skills back to the country:

“Pakistan is filled with potential. With smart policy, tech-driven solutions, and a united diaspora, we can tackle our biggest challenges and build future-ready industries. I invite the global Pakistani community to join us — we’re ready to support all who are committed to meaningful change.”

Leaders Commend Akbar’s Vision

Chairman of the Youth Parliament of Pakistan Mr. Abrar-ul-Haq and Minister for Climate Change Ms. Romina Khurshid Alam joined the ceremony virtually. Both lauded Akbar’s contributions to youth empowerment, sustainable development, and his role in fostering diaspora-led leadership for Pakistan’s future.

With over 1.6 million Pakistanis living in the UK, Shafiq Akbar’s story continues to inspire across continents — a testament to how vision, commitment, and collaboration can deliver transformative results.