Dubai-based Pakistani powerlifter Habib Aqeel Zaheer wins 13 gold medals on global stage

DUBAI (Syed Mudassir Khushnood) – Dubai-based Pakistani powerlifter Habib Aqeel Zaheer has delivered a remarkable run of victories at international powerlifting competitions, winning a string of gold medals and dedicating every triumph to Pakistan.

His performances have not only electrified the Pakistani community in the UAE but have also strengthened Pakistan’s presence in elite global powerlifting.

Zaheer hails from Gujranwala, Pakistan, and has emerged as one of the most consistent performers on the international circuit. Throughout 2025, he competed in a series of global powerlifting championships, securing 10 gold medals against some of the sport’s strongest lifters. His momentum carried into the start of 2026, where he added three more gold medals, taking his tally to 13 international golds across consecutive seasons.

At 44 years of age, Zaheer has stood out not only for his physical strength but also for his longevity at the top level of the sport. Competing against elite athletes from India, Russia, Australia, the United Kingdom, Sri Lanka and several other countries, he consistently finished on top of the podium, defeating younger and highly ranked competitors in multiple weight and strength categories.

Speaking to Dunya News, Zaheer said that every medal he wins belongs to Pakistan, adding that representing his country on the world stage remains his greatest honour. He emphasised that he has always competed under the Pakistani identity and intends to continue doing so in every international arena he enters.

His achievements have also earned official recognition in the UAE. Dubai Police, along with other government and sports institutions, awarded him certificates of appreciation and honorary medals in acknowledgement of his outstanding sporting contributions and his role in promoting Pakistan’s image abroad.

To mark the occasion, prominent Dubai-based businessman and social figure Muhammad Imran Butt hosted a special dinner in Zaheer’s honour. The event was attended by a large number of members from the Pakistani community, who gathered to celebrate the powerlifter’s achievements and his growing reputation as one of Pakistan’s most successful overseas athletes.

With 13 international gold medals secured across 2025 and early 2026, Habib Aqeel Zaheer has placed himself among the most decorated Pakistani powerlifters competing abroad, continuing to raise Pakistan’s profile in one of the world’s most physically demanding sports.