Islamabad, Jan 5: Saudi Arabia has expressed strong interest in investing in Pakistan’s hospitality sector, focusing on developing Balochistan’s coastal areas and creating tourist cities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). This initiative is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and aims to strengthen Pakistan’s tourism industry.
Key Highlights
- Collaborative Efforts: Islamabad and Riyadh are promoting Halal tourism to attract Middle Eastern tourists.
- Investment Strategy: Pakistan’s Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) has engaged an international firm to prepare a national tourism strategy.
- Visa Policy Expansion: New policies now enable visa access for 126 countries, including six Gulf nations.
Focus on Religious Tourism
Pakistan is enhancing efforts to attract Sikh and Buddhist tourists to religious sites in Punjab Province and Gandhara regions such as Taxila, Mardan, and Swat.
Upcoming Tourism Events
The 4th International Tourism Expo will be held in Karachi from January 31 to February 2, 2025, showcasing Pakistan’s tourism potential in collaboration with Saudi tourism authorities.
This partnership could redefine Pakistan’s global tourism image, paving the way for economic growth and cultural exchange.
