DUBAI – Renewable energy was the key focus for a select group of Pakistani companies participating in Middle East Energy (MME) 2025, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre. With over 1,600 exhibitors from around the globe showcasing clean mobility and smart technology, Pakistani innovators stood out with solutions tailored for sustainable growth.
Babar Shahzad, Director at Shahzad Pumps, emphasized the urgent global need for renewable solutions. “This is the need of the time,” he said, pointing to energy crises in regions like Africa. Shahzad Pumps presented its solar-powered submersible pumps, which eliminate the need for converters or inverters, providing a direct and efficient energy solution. “Electricity and fuel costs are rising sharply, so clients across Pakistan, the Middle East, and Africa are increasingly turning to solar energy,” he added.
Based in Faisalabad, Shahzad Pumps has remained competitive for nearly 50 years by consistently introducing new technologies. “If we don’t innovate, we won’t survive,” said Shahzad. He also underscored the importance of exhibitions like MME for research and development.
Beyond Sales: Creating Lasting Impact
For companies like Fast Cables, the MME platform goes beyond transactions. “It’s about creating a bigger impact,” said Ali Shahzad, Manager of Business Development. Listening to client concerns led Fast Cables to enter the LED lighting market—a sector previously lacking reliable local options.
“Our LEDs match the specifications of major brands but come at a more affordable price,” Shahzad noted. Positive reception in Pakistan has now encouraged Fast Cables to explore international markets.
Navigating Trade Challenges
Jawad Khalid, Export Manager at PEL, noted the disparities between Pakistan’s export ecosystem and those of competing countries. “Other governments support exporters with rebates and easier processes, while we face duties and banking hurdles,” he said.
Despite these challenges, PEL has expanded exports of its transformers from Africa and the Middle East to the U.S. market. However, U.S. tariffs introduced during the Trump administration have stalled some orders. “Everyone’s feeling the impact,” Khalid admitted, while pointing out that competitors like Turkey benefit from lower tariffs.
To stay competitive, PEL is aligning with international manufacturing standards. “We’ve shifted from IEC to IEEE standards for the U.S. and are working toward UL certification,” Khalid said.
Battery Innovation and Sustainability
Another notable exhibitor, Osaka Batteries—a division of ACM Group—showcased its advancements in electric vehicle (EV) batteries. While e-bikes haven’t gained major traction in Pakistan, the UAE market offers significant potential, particularly among delivery services.
Participating in the newly launched Battery Show Middle East and Battery Show Conference, Osaka displayed its lead-acid and graphene-based EV batteries and highlighted its plans to recycle lead and establish a lithium-ion battery plant in Pakistan.
Looking Ahead
Backed by the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, Middle East Energy 2025 brought together over 150 energy leaders to discuss innovations shaping a more sustainable and affordable energy future. From AI-powered technologies to global market trends, the exhibition reinforced Dubai’s role as a hub for energy transformation—and offered Pakistani firms a powerful platform to share their green vision with the world.
