Pakistan’s Tourism Industry Projected to Surpass $4 Billion by 2025
Pakistan’s Tourism Industry Projected to Surpass $4 Billion by 2025
Pakistan’s travel and tourism sector is projected to generate over $4 billion in revenue by 2025, reflecting an annual growth rate of 6.75%. The ‘Package Holidays’ segment is expected to lead the market, with revenues estimated at $1.92 billion in 2025. Additionally, online sales are anticipated to account for 66% of total tourism revenue by 2029, indicating a significant shift towards digital engagement. This growth underscores the sector’s potential to contribute substantially to Pakistan’s economy.
The anticipated growth in Pakistan’s tourism industry is driven by several factors, including improved infrastructure, government initiatives to promote tourism, and an increasing interest in domestic travel among Pakistani citizens. The focus on digital transformation within the industry aligns with global trends, making travel planning and booking more accessible to a broader audience.
News Source: Pakistan’s tourism market set to generate $4bn next year: report
Northern Pakistan Experiences Surge in Tourism Amid Sustainability Concerns
Northern Pakistan Experiences Surge in Tourism Amid Sustainability Concerns
Northern Pakistan, particularly the Gilgit-Baltistan region, has witnessed a 121% increase in international visitors in 2024 compared to 2023. Attractions such as stunning mountains, lakes, wildlife, excellent trekking, climbing, and unique culture have drawn tourists to the area. However, this surge in tourism presents ecological challenges in a fragile mountainous environment.
The increase in visitors has been facilitated by streamlined visa processes, with 126 nationalities now able to apply online for an e-visa. Additionally, direct flights have commenced between Dubai and Skardu in Northern Pakistan, enhancing accessibility. The Pakistani government and Gilgit-Baltistan authorities face the challenge of balancing economic benefits from tourism with the preservation of the region’s wilderness, addressing concerns over deforestation, pollution, and unregulated construction.
News Source: Northern Pakistan Listed as Top Travel Destination, as It Faces Sustainability Challenges
Cholistan Desert Jeep Rally Concludes Successfully
The 20th Cholistan Desert Jeep Rally took place from February 12 to 16, 2025, in the Cholistan Desert of Punjab, Pakistan. The event attracted over 100 participants competing across various categories, including Stock, Prepared, and Women’s categories. The rally covered a challenging route of approximately 500 kilometers, passing through vast desert landscapes and historic forts. Zain Mehmood emerged victorious in the A-Prepared Category, completing the course in 2 hours and 56 minutes.
The Cholistan Desert Jeep Rally has become an annual event, promoting motorsports and attracting tourists to the region. The rally not only provides entertainment but also boosts local economies by increasing demand for hospitality and related services. The event showcases Pakistan’s diverse landscapes and offers participants and spectators an opportunity to experience the country’s rich cultural heritage.
News Source: Cholistan Desert Jeep Rally
Launch of Kohsar Tourism Expressway
Launch of Kohsar Tourism Expressway
The Kohsar Tourism Expressway project has been initiated to promote tourism by connecting Rawalpindi to Murree and extending to Muzaffarabad in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The 123-kilometer expressway aims to offer an alternative route for travelers, enhancing accessibility to major tourist destinations. The project includes the construction of high-rise buildings, restaurants, rest stops, and motels, contributing to local economic growth and employment opportunities.
The development of the Kohsar Tourism Expressway is part of broader efforts to improve infrastructure and promote tourism in northern Pakistan. By providing a more direct and efficient route to popular destinations, the expressway is expected to reduce travel time and alleviate traffic congestion on existing roads. The project aligns with the government’s strategy to boost tourism and stimulate economic development in the region.
News Source: Kohsar Tourism Expressway
Discover Pakistan TV Launches World’s First AI-Powered Talk Show
Discover Pakistan TV Launches World’s First AI-Powered Talk Show
Discover Pakistan TV, the country’s first tourism-focused satellite channel, has launched the world’s first AI-powered TV talk show, marking a significant milestone in media innovation. The show, titled “AI Talk,” features AI entities as hosts, analysts, and even guests, offering a unique and futuristic viewing experience. 24newshd.tv
Launched on March 21, 2021, Discover Pakistan TV has been dedicated to showcasing Pakistan’s cultural and natural heritage through documentaries and infotainment programs. The introduction of “AI Talk” demonstrates the channel’s commitment to embracing cutting-edge technology to enhance content delivery. The AI anchor, developed by CEO Dr. Kaiser Rafiq, exhibits human-like facial and body movements, engaging in dynamic conversations on various topics, including current affairs, sports, and entertainment. This initiative positions Pakistan as a leader in AI integration within the media industry, reflecting a broader trend of technological advancement in content production.
News Source: The Future Unleashed: Pakistan Launches World’s First AI TV Talk Show
For a visual insight into this groundbreaking development, you can watch the following video:
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Editorial: Pakistan’s Tourism Boom – A Future in the Making
By ZunNurain Khalid, Founder and CEO of TrulyPakistan
Northern Pakistan, a paradise for travelers, is drawing international attention like never before. Yet, the same influx of tourists that fuels economic activity also poses environmental concerns. The challenge before us is to strike a balance—preserving the region’s natural beauty while making it accessible and economically beneficial for local communities. The government’s push for better connectivity, with projects like the Kohsar Tourism Expressway and direct international flights to Skardu, shows a commitment to making travel smoother. But accessibility must go hand in hand with responsible tourism practices, or we risk losing what makes these destinations so special in the first place.
Beyond nature-driven tourism, adventure and experiential travel are fast gaining traction. Events like the Cholistan Desert Jeep Rally put Pakistan on the global map for motorsports, proving that our tourism offerings are as diverse as our landscapes. Meanwhile, the media’s role in reshaping the narrative is undeniable—Discover Pakistan TV’s AI-powered talk show is an example of how innovation can redefine how we tell our stories to the world. If AI can help package and promote Pakistan’s tourism industry more effectively, we must embrace it as an opportunity rather than a novelty.
Perhaps the most promising development in this space is TrulyPakistan’s upcoming Travel & Tourism Conference in 2025. For too long, our industry has operated in silos. A conference that unites key stakeholders to drive digital transformation is exactly what Pakistan needs right now. Technology, sustainability, and collaboration must form the foundation of our tourism industry moving forward. If we continue on this trajectory, Pakistan is not just preparing for the future—it is setting the pace for it.
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