It will also honour the legacy of late Councillor Waseem Zaffar MBE JP, whose commitment to culture, community empowerment and youth engagement laid the foundations for the initiative.

The festival will take place from 1 to 14 August across multiple venues in Birmingham, with the Midlands Arts Centre (MAC) serving as the principal festival hub alongside Birmingham Town Hall and other community venues across the city.

The programme includes arts, culture, music, comedy, film, sport, business and community events held throughout the two-week festival. Over 20,000 people are expected to attend the celebrations.

The programme include music, visual arts, literature, tourism, film, food, sport, business events and community workshops.

The festival is chaired by Saima Suleman, former Cabinet Member for Digital Culture Heritage and Tourism. Mukhtar Dar of Kalaboration Arts has been appointed as artistic director by the festival steering committee.

Meanwhile, the fifth Pakistan Tourism & Hospitality Investment Summit and Smart Property Expo, will be spearheaded by past Chamber president Nasir Awan in collaboration with the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.

The festival is supported by Arts Council England, West Midlands Combined Authority, Birmingham City Council, Midlands Arts Centre, Turkish Airlines, Specsavers, Pickwick Cricket Club, Soho Road BID, and MIA Properties. 

Saima Suleman, chair of Spirit of Pakistan festival said: "Spirit of Pakistan is about bringing Birmingham's diverse communities together to celebrate the incredible contributions of British Pakistanis to our city's culture, business, sport and the arts.

“It is a festival of unity, pride and opportunity, showcasing the very best of our shared heritage while building stronger connections and opportunities for future generations."

Zahir Ahmed, director of MIA Property Group and executive committee member of Asian Business Chamber of Commerce, said: “We are delighted to be hosting this event, which reflects our shared commitment to strengthening cultural understanding, economic collaboration and community cohesion.

“Spirit of Pakistan is proud to work alongside the Chamber in creating opportunities that bring people together, celebrate our heritage and support meaningful engagement across the region.”