Microsoft Closes Pakistan Operations After 25 Years

News Published on Date: July 3rd 2025

Microsoft has officially shut down its operations in Pakistan, concluding a 25-year presence that began in June 2000. The closure was confirmed internally to the company’s remaining staff, though no public announcement has been made. 

The move marks the end of a long-standing relationship that saw Microsoft play a pivotal role in Pakistan’s digital transformation, spanning e-governance projects, education, and enterprise solutions.

In a heartfelt X (formerly Twitter) post, Former President of Pakistan Dr. Arif Alvi expressed his disappointment over Microsoft’s decision to shut down its operations in the country, calling it a troubling sign for the country’s economic future.

Dr. Alvi underscored the economic challenges facing Pakistan, including rising unemployment, talent migration, and diminishing purchasing power. He concluded by emphasizing the urgent need for political dialogue and electoral reforms, pointing to the growing public disillusionment with the current system.

Recalling a pivotal moment from February 2022, Alvi described a personal meeting with Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates at the President House, where Gates was awarded the Hilal-e-Imtiaz for his contribution to polio eradication in Pakistan. In a conversation that ranged from artificial intelligence and quantum computing to gut health and longevity, President Alvi raised a critical question: Why isn’t Microsoft investing in Pakistan?

Former Country Manager Jawwad Rehman also shared a heartfelt LinkedIn post titled ‘End of Era of Microsoft Pakistan.‘ he expressed his journey and recalled memories working with Microsoft Pakistan from 2000 to 2007.

In a post, he added, “I spent seven years developing Microsoft’s presence, assembling a talented team, serving customers, and working hand-in-hand with amazing partners. It wasn’t just a job, it shaped me, stretched me, and helped define who I am today.”

Furthermore, Jawwad also highlighted a few factors that he will never forget, some vital factors include Orchestrating Bill Gates first call with President Musharraf and different meetings. He also recalled helping and facilitating hundreds of top graduates in beginning their global careers at Microsoft.

After announcing, he later posted on ‘It’s time to act before it’s too late‘ and urged the government to actively engage Microsoft’s regional and global leadership with a robust KPI-driven plan. He added some points that can be improved, like a local Azure and AI infrastructure roadmap via public-private partnerships to drive and incentivize enterprise and public sector adoption. A direct incentive for local job creation and cloud resilience with data sovereignty, and more.