- A partnership worth acknowledging for sustained economic growth and stability
At a moment when Pakistan’s economy is navigating some of its most difficult years — marked by fiscal tightening, governance challenges, and relentless external pressures — it is important to recognize those partners who have consistently stood by us. Among them, the United Arab Emirates remains one of the most dependable and constructive. While domestic discourse often gets caught up in criticism or political noise, Pakistan owes the UAE a sincere note of appreciation for its unwavering economic engagement, especially the large investment commitments stemming from Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Few nations have matched this level of consistent support.
Over the past two decades, the UAE has quietly become one of Pakistan’s largest foreign investors. Its footprint covers ports, logistics, real estate, banking, telecom, energy, agriculture, and aviation — sectors that directly shape Pakistan’s economic resilience. This is not speculative capital nor opportunistic inflows; it is long-term participation reflecting both confidence and goodwill. The Emirates could have chosen safer markets and higher-return environments, yet they have repeatedly opted to deepen engagement with Pakistan, even during our most turbulent years.
The 2023–25 phase deserves special mention. As Pakistan faced shrinking foreign exchange reserves, harsh IMF conditions, and a fragile investment climate, the UAE stepped forward with a series of commitments that collectively exceed US$25 billion across agriculture, logistics, port development, and broader economic cooperation. These pledges were not mere diplomatic gestures — they demonstrated a clear message: the UAE continues to believe Pakistan is worth investing in. At a time when many international players hesitate, the Emirates have chosen partnership over caution.
One of the most strategic components of this relationship lies in the UAE’s involvement in Pakistan’s port and logistics infrastructure. Abu Dhabi Ports has taken a central role in modernizing Karachi Port through long-term concession agreements and multimillion-dollar upgrades. This includes improving bulk and general cargo terminals and enhancing capacity to handle larger volumes. Dubai’s DP World, for its part, has invested heavily in freight corridors aimed at reducing port congestion and accelerating cargo movement from Karachi to the national industrial zones. These projects are not simply commercial ventures — they are essential for Pakistan’s economic recovery. Without efficient ports, no export strategy can succeed, and without modern logistics, domestic supply chains cannot progress. The UAE is helping Pakistan rebuild the arteries of its economic system.
Agriculture is another area where the UAE’s role merits gratitude. With Pakistan struggling with recurring food insecurity, water inefficiencies, and low crop yields, UAE-backed agribusiness groups such as Al Dahra have introduced modern farming methods, processing facilities, and export-oriented production. Their investments are helping Pakistan upgrade its agricultural economy, which remains the backbone of our rural livelihoods. If properly supported by local policymakers, UAE-led agribusiness initiatives can help Pakistan diversify agricultural exports, improve food quality standards, and create jobs in underdeveloped districts.
UAE investments in telecom, aviation, banking, and services also continue to strengthen Pakistan’s economic ecosystem. These sectors often go unnoticed in public debate, yet they directly affect millions of households every day. UAE-linked banks have helped expand Islamic and retail banking services, telecom operators have upgraded digital connectivity, and UAE airlines have maintained vital transport links that connect Pakistan with the rest of the world. These contributions play a fundamental role in keeping Pakistan economically functional and globally connected.
It is equally essential to acknowledge the UAE’s repeated financial assistance during Pakistan’s balance-of-payments crises. Over the years, Abu Dhabi has extended deposits to the State Bank, rolled over loans, and provided urgently needed breathing space at critical junctures. These actions carry strategic value far beyond their monetary worth. They reflect trust, friendship, and a recognition that Pakistan’s stability is important for the region. Millions of Pakistani workers residing in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates are living bridges between the two nations, sending back remittances that fuel our domestic economy. The UAE’s policies toward our workforce — particularly during difficult global conditions — deserve appreciation.
That said, gratitude must not blind us to our own responsibilities. Pakistan must deliver governance improvements, policy continuity, and regulatory efficiency to ensure that UAE investments translate into tangible development. Bureaucratic hurdles, inconsistent regulations, and political instability often dilute the impact of foreign capital. The UAE has shown patience, but Pakistan must reciprocate by creating an environment where projects can proceed without undue delays.
Nonetheless, the overall direction of the UAE-Pakistan economic partnership is positive and promising. The Emirates have demonstrated seriousness through capital commitments, long-term concessions, and sustained presence across key sectors. They are investing in the future of Pakistan at a time when many global investors view the country with hesitation.
As Pakistan charts its path toward recovery and long-term stability, it must recognize and appreciate the partners who continue to stand by it. The UAE, especially Abu Dhabi and Dubai, has been one such partner — reliable, generous, and forward-looking. Offering gratitude is not just a diplomatic courtesy; it is an acknowledgment of reality. With proper stewardship, this partnership can become a defining pillar of Pakistan’s economic transformation.