Umar Farooq Zahoor, a Dubai-based businessman of Pakistani origin, has been honored with Pakistan’s highest civilian award, the Hilal-e-Imtiaz (Crescent of Excellence), in recognition of his significant contributions to the country’s economy. Zahoor’s efforts, which include attracting nearly $700 million in direct foreign investment over the past three years, have played a crucial role in strengthening Pakistan’s economic ties, particularly with the Gulf countries.
The prestigious award was conferred by President Asif Ali Zardari during a special ceremony at the President House on Pakistan Day, where Zahoor was one of more than 100 individuals to receive civil awards. Zahoor’s recognition comes after his instrumental role in securing large-scale investments directed towards infrastructure, ports, logistics, energy, agriculture, IT, and real estate sectors. Current projects, collectively valued at over $2 billion, are underway in these fields.
In addition to his business achievements, Zahoor has been pivotal in promoting economic cooperation between Pakistan and Gulf nations, utilizing his regional network and diplomatic expertise to facilitate investment flows.
Upon receiving the Hilal-e-Imtiaz, Zahoor expressed his pride and gratitude, saying, “It is an immense honor to be recognized by my motherland with such a prestigious award. I am proud to have contributed nearly $700 million in foreign investment to Pakistan over the last three years. This recognition motivates me further to support Pakistan’s economic growth and global standing.”
Zahoor’s dedication to social causes is also notable. Recently, he was appointed as a Pro Bono Ambassador at Large by the Intergovernmental Institution for the Use of Micro-algae Spirulina Against Malnutrition (IIMSAM), an autonomous inter-governmental observer to the United Nations Economic and Social Council. In this role, Zahoor will focus on combating global malnutrition, particularly in underserved regions like Pakistan, by managing the distribution of Spirulina in alignment with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals for 2020-2030.
Zahoor’s remarkable contributions to Pakistan’s economic development and his ongoing commitment to global humanitarian efforts exemplify his dedication to both his homeland and the international community.
