In a remarkable first for Pakistan, Lahore just hosted an event that’s shaking up traditional norms—a matchmaking gathering that brought together unmarried young men and women in a way that’s never been done before. Labeled as a form of “dating,” this event is creating a buzz on social media, sparking both excitement and controversy.
In a society where arranged marriages have long been the standard, this event is a significant departure from the norm. Typically, marriage bureaus and family negotiations have been the primary routes to matrimony. But this time, the event—organized by the UK-based Muslim marriage app M+Z—offered participants the rare chance to meet and connect with potential partners face-to-face.
The event saw 100 singles between the ages of 20 and 35 come together, many of them university students and young professionals who were experiencing something like this for the first time. M+Z, an app that has already built a community of 1.5 million users globally, especially in Muslim-majority regions like Morocco, took a bold step by bringing its platform to Pakistan. Among the attendees was Ayman, who mentioned that her brother in the USA had introduced her to the app. Her story was just one of many, as several male participants also shared how they got involved through family members abroad.
Though the event faced criticism from more conservative voices, it’s clear that something is changing in Pakistan. M+Z’s approach, which blends Islamic principles with modern matchmaking, is challenging age-old traditions while still respecting the cultural values that matter. And it’s resonating with young people who want more say in their marriage choices. This event wasn’t just about finding a match—it was about young Pakistanis embracing a new way of connecting, one that honors both their heritage and their desire for personal choice.