Shabbir Merchant, Chairman, Pakistan Business Council (PBC) Dubai, said the council plays a significant role in supporting and empowering Pakistani businessmen in the UAE as it provides a trusted platform for networking, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration among entrepreneurs and professionals.

In an exclusive interview on the eve of Pakistan Independence Day, Merchant said the PBC-Dubai connects members with potential partners, investors, and key decision-makers through regular events, seminars, and business forums. The council also advocates on behalf of its members, representing their concerns and interests with local authorities and business chambers.

“The council offers valuable guidance on company formation, UAE regulations, and market entry strategies, especially for newcomers. It actively promotes bilateral trade between Pakistan and the UAE, encouraging joint ventures and business delegations,” Merchant told Khaleej Times.

“By fostering community engagement, encouraging professional growth, and promoting a positive image of Pakistan, the council serves as a bridge between the Pakistani business diaspora and the wider UAE market. Its efforts continue to enhance visibility, credibility, and opportunities for Pakistani businesses in the region,” he added.

Strategic Vision

As Chairman of PBC-Dubai, my strategic vision focuses on building strong, result-oriented bridges between Pakistan and the UAE to boost trade and investment. This includes creating more structured opportunities for B2B engagement through trade delegations, industry-specific forums, and joint exhibitions, according to Merchant.

“We aim to promote sectors where Pakistan has a competitive edge — such as textiles, IT, agriculture, and skilled manpower — while also encouraging UAE investment in Pakistan’s infrastructure, energy, and tourism sectors. Strengthening collaboration with UAE government entities, free zones, and chambers of commerce is key to easing market entry and regulatory understanding for our members.

“We have also signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with various chambers of commerce in Pakistan to facilitate closer cooperation, information exchange, and mutual support for business expansion,” he said.

Merchant said PBC-Dubai is keen to modernise trade practices by promoting digital transformation, encouraging e-commerce, and supporting the adoption of smart business solutions. “Through partnerships, training, and access to market insights, we help members stay competitive and aligned with global economic trends,” he said.

In reply to a question, he said PBC-Dubai is committed to empowering startups and SMEs by providing mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to relevant market information. “We organise workshops, training sessions, and business forums tailored to the needs of emerging entrepreneurs. By connecting SMEs with investors, advisors, and potential partners, we help them scale and explore cross-border opportunities. We also collaborate with chambers and free zones to simplify business setup processes and promote bilateral economic collaboration between Pakistan and the UAE,” he said.

Merchant, an industry veteran, is clear about his vision to promote PBC-Dubai as a trusted platform for Pakistani businessmen and increase their role in development of the country’s economic growth by connecting them to global businesses and investors. “We are prioritising targeted outreach campaigns, sector-focused networking events, and collaborations with community organizations to expand PBC Dubai’s membership. By showcasing success stories and the benefits of joining the council, we aim to attract more professionals and entrepreneurs.

“We’re also launching initiatives to engage youth and second-generation Pakistanis, encouraging their active participation in business and trade,” he said.

To further strengthen global connectivity, Merchant said PBC-Dubai is launching a dedicated mobile application in September that will feature tools to connect Pakistani businesses across the world.

“Additionally, our newly revamped PBC website is designed to reach a wider audience and serve as a more effective platform for communication, engagement, and business promotion. These initiatives are part of our broader vision to mobilise the Pakistani diaspora as a key driver of economic growth and bilateral collaboration,” he said.

Shabbir Merchant, Chairman, Pakistan Business Council Dubai.

B2B, B2G Connections

Merchant said PBC Dubai leverages its platform to foster both B2B and B2G connections by acting as a bridge between the Pakistani business community and key stakeholders in the UAE and Pakistan.

“We actively engage with government bodies, trade authorities, and chambers to represent the economic interests of our members. Notably, we hosted high-level business networking events with Jam Kamal Khan, Federal Minister, and Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister of Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, providing members direct access to policymakers.”

“Our ongoing collaboration with Dubai Chambers has further enhanced institutional ties, creating opportunities for dialogue and trade facilitation. During our recent visit to Pakistan, we signed multiple MoUs with leading chambers of commerce, strengthening our commitment to bilateral cooperation and opening new channels for investment and trade. Through these initiatives, PBC Dubai continues to position itself as a key enabler of strategic B2B and B2G engagement to advance Pakistan’s economic footprint in the UAE,” he said.

To a question about balancing the council’s focus on economic growth with its efforts to strengthen cultural and social ties between Pakistan and the UAE, he said: “We believe economic growth and cultural connection go hand in hand. At PBC Dubai, we strive to maintain this balance by organizing events that celebrate Pakistan’s heritage while also creating business value. Whether it’s Independence Day celebrations, sports tournaments, or community forums, we integrate cultural engagement with networking opportunities. These events not only foster unity within the diaspora but also enhance Pakistan’s soft image in the UAE.”

“By involving professionals, families, and youth, we ensure that our initiatives contribute to both economic development and strong, lasting social ties between the two nations,” he said.

Merchant said the outlook for Pakistan’s economy shows cautious optimism, with signs of stabilisation supported by reforms, increased remittances, and improved investor confidence. Key sectors expected to drive growth this year include agriculture, which is rebounding due to better crop yields and government support; information technology and digital services, benefiting from global demand and a strong youth talent pool; and exports, especially in textiles, which remain a backbone of the economy.

“Additionally, construction, logistics, and renewable energy sectors are likely to see momentum with public-private partnerships and foreign investment. With sustained policy reforms and political stability, these sectors can contribute significantly to economic recovery and long-term growth,” Merchant concluded.