November 4, 2024

Future Fest 2024, organised by Pakistan Association Dubai (PAD), wrapped up today with over 1000 students, 18+ participating institutions, and representatives from more than 12 schools in attendance. This two-day Education and Career Expo has firmly established itself as a unique platform for bringing together students, educational institutions, and industry experts to explore career pathways and academic opportunities.

In his remarks, His Excellency Hussain Muhammad, Consul General of Pakistan in Dubai, who was our Chief Guest at the event, commended PAD for its commitment to nurturing future talent, stating, “Events like Future Fest are not just about education - they are about building a brighter future for our youth. PAD is really making a sustainable impact by gathering resources, mentorship, and top-notch educational partners under one roof.” Ali Zeb Khan, Trade and Investment Counsellor, Consulate General of Dubai, attended as a special guest on Day 1, appreciating the efforts of students, exhibitors, and the PAD team. He remarked, “It’s inspiring to see these opportunities brought together for our aspiring young leaders. The engagement here certainly reflects the commitment to developing the future of our youth.”

Dr. Faisel Ikram, President PAD, highlighted the event’s role in making education more accessible to students and young professionals in the region, sharing, “Future Fest is an expression of PAD’s mission to drive opportunity and empowerment. By collaborating with renowned universities and providing real career support, we hope to transform dreams into achievable goals for our community.”

Zahid Hassan, General Secretary PAD, recognised Future Fest as an annual celebration of growth and learning, saying, “With each year, Future Fest will expand in scope and influence, reaching more students and connecting them to valuable career-building resources. This year’s turnout only confirms the need for this kind of platform.”

The event featured thought-provoking keynotes from celebrated speakers, including Samia Hasan, Career and Leadership Coach, who shared actionable advice on crafting a career aligned with personal passions; Abdul Karim Hanif, renowned broadcast journalist, who demonstrated the power of media skills; and Omar Hayat, Management Consultant and Trainer, who explored modern leadership and success strategies. Each session was designed to inspire students for their journeys ahead.

Participants had the opportunity to interact with 18+ renowned educational institutions from around the globe, including Bath Spa University, Riphah International University, Learn Academy, Education Pathways, Secure My Scholarship, UniPlus, Middlesex University Dubai, British Council, Idea Academy, London American City College, Education Malaysia, University of West London RAK Branch Campus, University of Bolton - Academic Centre Ras Al Khaimah, Synergy University Dubai, Superior University, Walsh College UAE, Stanford Global Education Services, ULearn, DeMontfort University Dubai, and Universiti Teknologi Petronas.

“Seeing students come together to explore their potential and access scholarship opportunities has been inspiring,” said Mr Muhammad Dawood Khan, Head PAD Education Committee. “Our goal is to ensure that every student leaves with the tools and confidence they need to navigate their future.”

In addition to keynote talks, students engaged in hands-on workshops and availed exclusive scholarship offers from participating universities, in a bid to make education more affordable and inclusive. This year's Future Fest signified the power of collaboration between PAD and educational institutions to lead meaningful change for the next generation.

Special thanks to our partners; Champion Group, Lumber Frames Trading, Digitally, Al Meher Group, and Red Dot FZE, for making the event a success.