Pakistan is gearing up for a landmark moment in its technology journey as Indus AI Week takes center stage from February 9 to 15, 2026. This week-long event, organized by the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication through a strong public-private partnership, is being positioned as more than a tech gathering. It is being framed as the country’s official national platform for artificial intelligence, aimed at transforming Pakistan from a technology consumer into a serious contender in the global AI landscape.
The significance of Indus AI Week lies in its timing and scale. While AI has long been discussed in academic circles and industry meetings, it has rarely translated into large-scale national adoption. The introduction of the National AI Policy last year set the stage, but this event marks the critical shift from planning to action. Federal Minister for IT & Telecom Shaza Fatima Khawaja has emphasized that the initiative is designed to move “beyond dialogue and toward adoption,” and the week’s activities are structured to do exactly that. Programs such as the Uraan AI Techathon 1.0 and National AI Training Bootcamps are intended to turn theoretical ideas into real-world AI solutions.
Indus AI Week also breaks away from the traditional format of tech events in Pakistan, which are often confined to luxury hotels in major cities. While the flagship Indus AI Summit will be held at the Jinnah Convention Center, the initiative extends far beyond Islamabad. Co-branded activities will take place across the country, with universities, tech hubs, and private companies hosting workshops, seminars, and AI-focused sessions under one unified banner. This nationwide approach is a first for a tech initiative in Pakistan, making it the most expansive and inclusive technology movement the country has seen.
Another core goal of the week is to elevate Pakistan’s position in the global AI ecosystem. The country has long been recognized for its talent, but it has often lacked platforms that allow that talent to be showcased internationally. Indus AI Week aims to change that by inviting global technology leaders and investors to Islamabad, signaling that Pakistan is ready for AI-driven investment. The presence of international experts and organizations is also expected to provide local talent with exposure to global standards and opportunities to demonstrate their innovations on a larger stage.
Inclusivity is a major focus of Indus AI Week, particularly through the “AI for Her” initiative. By dedicating tracks and resources to increasing women’s participation in AI leadership, the event seeks to address the gender gap in technology. The goal is not only social equity but also ensuring that women make up a meaningful share of the workforce shaping Pakistan’s AI future.
The public-facing Innovation, Learning & Engagement Arena at the Islamabad Sports Complex (February 9–10) is designed to make AI accessible to a broader audience. With AR/VR showcases, the Indus eSports Championship, and a tech expo, the event aims to demystify AI and encourage curiosity among youth, students, and non-tech professionals.
Indus AI Week is being viewed as the foundation for Pakistan’s digital future. By bringing together founders, students, policymakers, and investors, the week is set to play a defining role in shaping the country’s economy and technology landscape. With AI recognized as the defining technology of the era, the event is being positioned as Pakistan’s decisive step toward embracing this global shift.
Indus AI Week runs from February 9 to 15, 2026, and is expected to leave a lasting impact on Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
