Despite decades of slow economic growth, Pakistan has produced a number of business leaders and entrepreneurs who have created enormous wealth while opening opportunities for others. Here are the richest Pakistanis who have made a mark nationally and internationally.
1. Shahid Khan
Born in Lahore in 1950, Shahid Khan moved to the US at age 16. He founded Flex-N-Gate, a global auto-parts supplier, and owns the NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars and UK’s Fulham FC. His net worth reached $8.89 billion in 2020.
2. Anwar Pervez
Born in Rawalpindi in 1935, Anwar Pervez emigrated to England and founded Bestway Group, a multibillion-pound enterprise dominating 18% of the UK market. He was awarded Hilal-e-Pakistan and knighted in 1999.
3. Sadruddin Hashwani
The Karachi-born entrepreneur (1940) founded Hashoo Group, known for luxury hotels like Marriott and Pearl Continental, with a net worth of $900 million. Hashwani has been awarded Nishan-e-Imtiaz for his services to business.
4. Mian Mohammad Mansha
With a net worth of $5 billion, Mansha transformed Nishat Group into a diversified conglomerate, including banks, textiles, motors, and malls. He studied in the UK and now oversees major businesses like MCB Bank and DG Khan Cement.
5. Asif Ali Zardari
Born into a feudal family in 1955, Zardari rose to political prominence through his marriage to Benazir Bhutto, eventually serving as President of Pakistan (2008–2013). He is among the top 10 wealthiest Pakistanis, investing in agriculture, real estate, and industry.
6. Malik Riaz
Born in Rawalpindi in 1954, Malik Riaz founded Bahria Town, Asia’s largest real estate developer. His company is known for luxury gated communities and disaster relief efforts across Pakistan.
7. Nawaz Sharif
With a net worth of $1.6 billion, Nawaz Sharif is a businessman-turned-politician, heading Etihad Group and serving multiple terms as Prime Minister. He has extensive investments in real estate and business sectors.
8. Nasir Schon
CEO of Schon Group, Nasir Schon oversees properties like Dubai Lagoon and Schon Business Park, winning awards for mixed-use developments. He is based in the UAE but has major business operations in Pakistan.
9. Rafiq Muhammad Habib
Founder of Thal Limited, Rafiq Muhammad Habib also chairs Shabbir Tiles & Ceramics Ltd., Habib Insurance, and House of Habib Pvt Ltd. He is influential in Pakistan’s commerce and industry sector.
10. Other Notable Tycoons
Other Pakistani billionaires have made their mark in industries like banking, construction, and consumer goods, contributing to economic growth and philanthropy in Pakistan.
