The dates were announced by Prime Minister’s Adviser on Tourism Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan while addressing an event at the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI).
During the event, the ICCI and the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) signed a memorandum of understanding to promote tourism, expand business opportunities and enhance Pakistan’s international image.
Yasir Ilyas Khan said the three-day festival would bring together tourism, sports, culture, adventure and family entertainment on a single platform. He added that the event aimed to highlight Pakistan’s tourism potential while boosting economic activity and business opportunities.
Planned attractions include paragliding, rock climbing, tent pegging, a vintage car show, hot-air balloons, cultural performances, traditional handicrafts, food stalls and activities for families.
The adviser described tourism promotion as a shared national responsibility, saying the sector could generate economic opportunities, create employment and contribute to Pakistan’s development. He expressed hope that the festival would help establish Islamabad as an attractive destination for tourism, culture, sports and investment.
ICCI President Muhammad Zakaria Akbar Zia said Pakistan had significant tourism potential, stretching from Islamabad to scenic destinations such as Swat, Chitral, Gilgit and Skardu. He said the country’s mountains, natural landscapes, historical sites and cultural heritage offered considerable opportunities for economic growth.
He stressed the need to improve air connectivity, tourism infrastructure and international promotion, particularly through measures to attract more visitors from Arab countries.
ICCI Senior Vice President Muhammad Ashfaq Hussain Chattha said tourism extended beyond recreation, serving as an important source of employment, investment and commercial activity. He called for better facilities and greater encouragement for private-sector participation.
ICCI Vice President Muhammad Waqas Khan Swati said the chamber would support business community participation, promotion and coordination for the festival. He added that collaboration with the PTDC could help expand opportunities for local businesses, investment and youth employment.