Over 40 Pakistani startups, along with more than 80 venture capital firms, are set to converge in Riyadh this weekend for the Paklaunch (PL) Unconference, an event designed to strengthen cross-border tech collaboration and investment opportunities. The Unconference will provide a platform for startups, investors, and industry leaders from Pakistan and Saudi Arabia to connect, exchange ideas, and explore strategic partnerships within the region’s growing technology ecosystem. Networking sessions are scheduled for Saturday evening, followed by the main event on Sunday at Al Faisaliah Tower in Riyadh, providing ample opportunity for informal engagement and structured discussions.
Indus Valley Capital founder Aatif Awan confirmed that a number of startup founders backed by the firm will attend the event, emphasizing that participants in Riyadh interested in exploring Pakistan’s fast-growing tech landscape are encouraged to engage directly with founders and venture capitalists. Pakistani workspace startup COLABS is among the attendees and is preparing to expand operations to Saudi Arabia, reflecting a broader trend of Pakistani startups seeking regional growth and collaboration opportunities. This strategic outreach aligns with ongoing efforts to build stronger investment networks and promote technology exchange between the two countries.
The speaker lineup features high-profile industry leaders, including Dubizzle Group’s Imran Ali Khan, US Mobile’s Ahmed Khattak, and Jazz CEO Aamir Ibrahim. Organizers have highlighted that the Unconference aims not only to showcase innovation and entrepreneurship but also to catalyze new cross-border investment opportunities in AI, fintech, cloud computing, and research and development initiatives. The event coincides with the formalization of a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Framework between Islamabad and Riyadh, which aims to enhance trade and investment across sectors such as IT, energy, and infrastructure, creating a favorable environment for regional startups and investors to engage more actively.
The timing of Paklaunch also reflects broader geopolitical and economic developments, with Pakistan and Saudi Arabia recently signing a Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement, signaling growing strategic alignment. The Unconference provides a platform for startups and venture capitalists to leverage these developments, promoting digital economy initiatives and enabling Pakistani companies to expand their regional footprint. By connecting local entrepreneurs with international investors and industry leaders, the event is expected to generate new partnerships, foster innovation, and strengthen economic collaboration between the two countries while showcasing Pakistan’s emerging role in the regional technology landscape.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
