LONDON: Celebrated British-Pakistani entrepreneur Shafiq Akbar was honoured at a special ceremony held in the UK Parliament this week for his groundbreaking contributions to Pakistan’s economy, real estate innovation, and diaspora empowerment.
The event, hosted in the prestigious House of Lords, was led by Lord Shaffaq Mohammed, who presented Akbar with an award recognising his role in job creation, large-scale development projects, and digital transformation within Pakistan’s property sector.
“Shafiq Akbar exemplifies what can be achieved when ambition is rooted in purpose,” Lord Shaffaq said. “He reflects the very best of what the UK and Pakistan can accomplish together.”
Born in Pakistan, Akbar pursued higher education in the United Kingdom, earning degrees from Queen Mary University and Cambridge University. After a successful career in financial advisory and real estate abroad, he returned to Pakistan with a vision to modernise the sector and empower overseas Pakistanis.
Under his leadership, Akbar has spearheaded multi-billion rupee developments, including Islamabad’s upcoming downtown district and four new Marriott hotels. His ventures have not only transformed skylines but created thousands of jobs, while his real estate company has reached a valuation exceeding $1 billion.
Lord Shaffaq highlighted Akbar’s broader impact, saying,
“From his international influence in the UK to his nation-building efforts in Pakistan, Shafiq has shown how business can be a powerful vehicle for public service. This recognition celebrates him as a cultural bridge-builder, a promoter of economic diplomacy, and a champion of trilateral collaboration between government, academia, and civil society.”
A Call to Action for the Diaspora
In his acceptance remarks, Akbar struck a reflective tone, calling the award a symbol of shared responsibility and collective progress:
“This isn’t just about one individual. It’s about the bond between nations — the connection between our identity as overseas Pakistanis and our duty to give back. If we truly want to see meaningful change in Pakistan, then we, the diaspora, must be part of that solution.”
He urged fellow overseas Pakistanis to lend their expertise and global perspective to support reforms, investment, and innovation back home.
“Pakistan has massive potential. With smart policies and technology-driven thinking, we can overcome structural challenges and build sustainable industries. I invite the global Pakistani community to join us — we’re ready to back anyone with a sincere commitment to progress.”
Progress on Investor Protections
During a Q&A session, Akbar spoke about how recent reforms through the Special Facilitation Investment Council (SFIC) have helped streamline investor issues and improve accountability.
“Things are changing. We’re advocating for a dedicated cell within SFIC focused solely on overseas Pakistanis — so their issues can be resolved quickly and transparently. The creation of special courts is a major milestone, but more can still be done.”
He emphasized that overseas Pakistanis are not just emotional stakeholders — they’re economic engines that deserve full protection and facilitation.
Tributes from Pakistani Leaders
The event also featured virtual messages from Abrar-ul-Haq, Chairman of the Youth Parliament of Pakistan, and Romina Khurshid Alam, Minister for Climate Change. Both praised Akbar’s leadership in youth development and his efforts to engage the diaspora in national progress.
“Shafiq’s journey is an inspiration for young entrepreneurs across Pakistan and the diaspora,” Abrar said. “He’s proof that purpose-driven leadership can bring real change.”
