Mehwish Salman Ali, a Pakistani tech entrepreneur, represented her country at the International Digital Cooperation Forum (IDCF) in Jordan this February, where she highlighted Pakistan’s growing AI industry and potential for foreign direct investment (FDI), particularly from the Middle East. Ali, the CEO of Data Vault — Pakistan’s first women-led, solar-powered, quantum-encrypted data center — discussed the future of AI and borderless technology, which she believes could bridge gaps between investors and emerging tech hubs like Pakistan.
Ali’s career journey began with a degree in genetics from the University of Karachi, but she switched to IT in 2008 after limited opportunities in her initial field. She later moved to Dubai in 2012 and launched 3wOgle Group of Companies, which provides web-based IT services. Though primarily based in the Middle East, Ali has remained actively engaged in Pakistan, where she established Data Vault to promote AI systems operating autonomously.
At the IDCF, Ali stressed the importance of adopting AI-friendly policies to increase Pakistan’s share of the AI-driven global economy, estimated to contribute $15.7 trillion by 2030. She advocated for policies that would help Pakistan attract more investors, particularly as AI spending in the Middle East continues to rise.
Ali also shared her insights about the need for Pakistani startups to better understand market dynamics when pitching their ideas internationally, especially in the Middle East, where massive investments are being made in AI.
Recognized for her leadership, Ali was recently inducted as a member of the Forbes Technology Council, becoming one of only four Pakistanis and the only woman in the group. She also announced plans for an AI innovation lab in Pakistan, which she hopes will become a center of excellence for AI, attracting investment and fostering growth in the tech sector.
Key Points:
- Mehwish Salman Ali represents Pakistan at the IDCF in Jordan, promoting AI investment.
- Data Vault, Pakistan’s first women-led, solar-powered quantum-encrypted data center, was highlighted.
- Ali advocates for AI-friendly policies and the importance of understanding market dynamics in the Middle East.
