Muslim Tech Fest, a fast-growing global event spotlighting Muslim innovation in technology, officially opened its doors this weekend in London. With more than 1,500 participants from 27 countries, including the UK, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the US, and Canada, the festival has positioned itself as a powerful platform for ethical and inclusive innovation.
Founded in 2023 by technologists and community leaders Arfah Farooq and Zahid Mahmood, Muslim Tech Fest is more than just a showcase of technical talent. It is a movement aimed at realigning innovation with deeper values, specifically those rooted in Islamic ethical principles.
“This isn’t about diversity optics,” the organisers stated. “It’s about real access.”
Reclaiming First Principles in Technology
Co-founder Zahid Mahmood emphasised the importance of returning to foundational principles in both enterprise and innovation. Speaking on the opening day of the event, he addressed the growing disconnect between technology and purpose.
“Faith and innovation aren’t opposites; they’ve always gone hand in hand,” Mahmood said. “What we need to do is go back to first principles as Muslims and see how it is that we build enterprise, technology, and innovation in a way that serves Allah.”
Rather than contradicting the ambitions of major tech firms, Mahmood said the difference lies in “putting the right philosophy and principles in place.” He noted that Islamic teachings can guide technologists to build more inclusive and thoughtful systems—ones that serve not just consumers, but also those often left behind, such as people with disabilities or first-time tech users.
Global Representation and Difficult Conversations
The festival is intentionally designed to reflect the wide spectrum of Muslim talent in the tech industry, drawing entrepreneurs, developers, and investors from across continents. A significant portion of the event was dedicated to difficult but necessary conversations, including discussions about the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
“We spend a lot of time and effort inviting those from conflict zones,” Mahmood said. “We have Gaza Sky Geeks’ presence here today to share their stories… These are real human beings living a very difficult truth.”
Despite geopolitical hurdles and logistical challenges, Palestinian tech founders and developers were still present at this year’s event through virtual talks and startup showcases. Mahmood recalled that last year’s Muslim Tech Fest hosted a full Gaza Expo, a tradition the organisers sought to continue.
“Technology alone is not going to save the world,” he admitted. “But if this event can inspire someone to make a change, support a cause, or spread a message, then it’s been a success.”
A Vision for Ethical, Inclusive Innovation
Muslim Tech Fest is not just about identity; it is about reshaping how innovation is done. With Anadolu Agency serving as the global media partner, the festival’s growing international profile reflects rising interest in values-driven technology.
Workshops, panels, and startup pitches covered a broad range of topics, from AI and climate tech to financial inclusion and accessibility design. Yet at its core, MTF is about challenging the dominant models of innovation and offering alternatives that are rooted in compassion, accountability, and justice.
That, organisers say, is what sets the event apart.
Building Beyond the Stage
What began as a grassroots idea is quickly becoming one of the most influential platforms in global tech discourse. By offering a stage for Muslim founders and thought leaders and inviting broader engagement with the ethical dilemmas facing modern technology, Muslim Tech Fest continues to grow its reach and relevance.
And while the event concludes in just a few days, its message carries beyond the halls of London. “This isn’t just about creating the next big app,” Mahmood noted. “It’s about shaping an ecosystem where purpose and impact lead the way.”
