Pakistan Association Dubai (PAD) successfully concluded Future Fest 2025, its flagship Education & Career Expo, which drew 1000 students, parents, educators, and industry professionals over two days on 24–25 November. The event created a unique platform where young people engaged directly with leading universities and explored rapidly evolving career landscapes.

The opening day set a powerful tone as the Consul General of Pakistan, H.E. Hussain Muhammad, attended the event and delivered an inspiring address, motivating students to pursue excellence. Future Fest 2025 featured an exceptional lineup of keynote speakers whose sessions kept audiences fully engaged. Founder & Leadership Consultant, CLD MENA, Omar Hayat, opened the event with his leadership-focused talk, “Inspiring Others for a Better You,” which encouraged students to embrace self-development and meaningful action. Dr Javeria Atif followed with her discussion on “How Medicine and Content Creation Can Go Together,” showing attendees how interdisciplinary careers are reshaping today’s professional landscape. Director of Compliance & MLRO, BitOasis, Najeeb Razzaque, delivered a talk on emerging opportunities in fintech andempowered students to understand and prepare for the future of financial industries.

Creativity and innovation took centre stage as Fahad Ali, Founder & CEO of Broomstick Creative, delivered a keynote and workshop on “How to Be Smart with AI,” demonstrating practical tools young people can apply immediately. Vibe FM 105.4 RJ Sophiya Anjam captivated aspiring communicators with her session “Master the Mic,” offering hands-on training for students interested in public speaking, emceeing, podcasting, or broadcasting — and even announcing a four-week internship opportunity at Vibe FM for selected participants. Senior Faculty Member at Horizon University College, Dr Reyaz Ahmad, delivered his workshop on emerging industries and building future-ready skills.

Reflecting on the event’s impact, Zahid Hassan, General Secretary PAD, remarked that Future Fest 2025 once again demonstrated the community’s collective commitment to education and youth development. He reiterated that PAD remains focused on creating opportunities that enable young people to advance academically, professionally and personally.

A major highlight of this year’s expo was the availability of exclusive scholarships and fee waivers made possible through the presence of international institutions committed to supporting talented youth. Horizon University College awarded three scholarships worth 100% each to students referred through PAD, while Jumeira University also announced 75% scholarships for students referred through PAD. Students explored the kiosks of over 15 universities, including Bath Spa University, Heriot-Watt University, Jumeira University, University of West London, London South Bank University, Murdoch University, Swiss Business School, Walsh College, Superior University, Idea Academy, De Montfort University, University for the Creative Arts, Horizon College, Phoenix Financial Training, Riphah University, and representatives from the British Council.

Over 10 schools from across the UAE – including Pakistan Education Academy, English Language Private School, Sheikh Rashid Al Maktoum School, Al Amaal School, Pakistan Islamia School Sharjah, Pakistani Islamia Al Ain, PAMIR Private School, Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Arab Pakistani School, Pakistan Islamia Ras Al Khaimah, and others – participated actively and ensured their students benefitted from the immersive learning environment.
Special thanks to our partners including Vibe FM 105.4, Al Mehr, Digitally, Lumber Frames, Emax, Al Rawabi, Cool&Cool, Fitbar, Igloo, Al Wasl, Happy Happy UAE, Hydro Coco, Red Dot & Star Tents.