Islamabad (GNP): Pakistan will join the international community in celebrating World Tourism Day 2026 on 27 September, with a range of tourism-related activities, awareness initiatives and events being planned across the country to highlight the importance of tourism for socio-economic development, cultural promotion and community well-being.
The occasion provides an opportunity to showcase Pakistan’s rich natural, cultural and heritage assets while promoting tourism in a responsible and sustainable manner. Activities being organized by public and private sector organizations in different parts of the country will focus on tourism awareness, community engagement, cultural heritage, environmental responsibility and the promotion of domestic tourism.
National Coordinator for Tourism, Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan, in his message on this occasion said that tourism has significant potential to contribute to Pakistan’s economy through employment generation, investment, support for local businesses and regional development. He emphasized that improved tourism infrastructure, quality services, stronger private-sector participation and responsible tourism practices are essential for sustainable growth of the sector.
Secretary, Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination, Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, said that tourism can play an important role in creating economic opportunities, particularly for youth, women and communities in tourism destinations. He emphasized that stronger coordination among the Federal Government, provincial and regional tourism organizations, the private sector and local communities is necessary for developing a competitive, inclusive and sustainable tourism industry.
Managing Director PTDC, Aftab-ur-Rehman Rana, highlighted that Pakistan’s diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, adventure opportunities, religious sites and traditional hospitality provide a strong foundation for tourism development. He emphasized that PTDC will continue to strengthen destination promotion, capacity building, tourism standards and Pakistan’s visibility in domestic and international markets.
He also highlighted PTDC’s evolving role, as a National Centre of Excellence for Tourism, focusing on national coordination, research, capacity development, knowledge sharing and adoption of international best practices.
PTDC continues to promote and facilitate national and international tourism events and exhibitions, strengthen Brand Pakistan, encourage public-private collaboration and support initiatives aimed at positioning Pakistan as a competitive, sustainable and responsible tourism destination.
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World Tourism Day activities across Pakistan will further reinforce the message that tourism development must create economic opportunities while protecting the country’s natural environment, cultural heritage and local traditions.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
