LONDON: Renowned British-Pakistani entrepreneur Shafiq Akbar was honoured here at the UK Parliament in recognition of his contributions to Pakistan’s economy — including the creation of thousands of jobs, real estate sector investments and empowerment of the overseas Pakistani community.
The special ceremony at the House of Lords was led by Lord Shaffaq Mohammed, Baron Mohammed of Tinsley, who presented Akbar with an achievement award for creating thousands of jobs in Pakistan; driving the digital transformation of Pakistan’s real estate industry; leading large-scale developments, including Islamabad’s new downtown and four Marriott Hotels; and building a $1 billion company by investing in Pakistan.
Lord Shaffaq praised Akbar’s leadership: “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. Born and raised in Pakistan, Akbar pursued higher education in the UK, graduating from Queen Mary University and completing a MPhil degree at Cambridge University. He built a successful career in financial advisory and real estate investment before returning to Pakistan after 15 years abroad.”
Lord Shaffaq said: “From his international engagements in the United Kingdom to his national influence in Pakistan, Akbar has demonstrated a profound commitment to public service through enterprise. Through various initiatives, he has empowered thousands, championed industry digitisation, and cultivated impactful trilateral dialogue among the government, academic institutions, and civil society. This recognition celebrates his enduring role as a cultural envoy and economic diplomat—a builder of bridges between nations, a facilitator of inter-parliamentary cooperation, and a visionary dedicated to the public good and transnational progress.”
In his acceptance speech, Shafiq Akbar reflected on the meaning behind the honour: “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 urged fellow overseas Pakistanis to contribute their expertise back to the country: “We all want to see meaningful progress in Pakistan — and overseas Pakistanis have the experience and global perspective to help lead that change. I believe Pakistan is destined to grow. With smart policy, tech-driven solutions, and its untapped potential, we can tackle major challenges and build sustainable industries. I invite the global Pakistani community to join this mission — we’re ready to support those committed to making a real difference.”
Akbar, answering questions, said that the establishment of the SFIC has changed a lot of things for the investors and now resolutions of the issues are being found quickly. “We are speaking to the senior govt level, advocating for the creation of a dedicated cell in SFIC with its focus on overseas Pakistanis, for the immediate redressal of their issues. The establishment of the special courts is a huge progress forward but we want more for the overseas Pakistanis. They drive our economy and are its engine. We need more facilities for them in the country.”
Chairman Youth Parliament of Pakistan, Abrar-ul-Haq, and Minister for Climate Change, Romina Khurshid Alam, joined the ceremony virtually and commended Shafiq Akbar’s outstanding efforts in youth empowerment and diaspora leadership.
