Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on a New Path to Global Tourism
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is on a new path to global tourism, marking a major step toward positioning the province as an international travel destination. A key meeting of the Joint Management Board—comprising Green Tourism Private Limited and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Tourism Department—was held in Peshawar under the chairmanship of Dr. Abdul Samad, Secretary of Culture, Tourism, Archaeology and Museums.
Sustainable Development and Global Partnerships
The meeting focused on shaping a sustainable future for tourism in the province. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to transform Khyber Pakhtunkhwa into a world-class tourism hub aligned with the Chief Secretary’s vision. This vision emphasizes responsible tourism, sustainable development, and community empowerment, allowing local residents to protect and benefit from their cultural and natural heritage.
In a significant development, the board approved the inclusion of a 45-kilometer road in the upcoming tourism project, soon to be presented for Saudi investment. This road aims to improve accessibility and open new routes for travelers, paving the way for greater exploration and discovery.
Moreover, Green Tourism Private Limited and the Tourism Department agreed to strengthen financial collaboration on major investment ventures, including the Hund Theme Park in Swabi and the Ganool International Tourism Zone in Mansehra. The partnership will also attract global investors to develop international-standard tourism zones across the province.
Eco-Friendly Glamping and Infrastructure Growth
In addition to infrastructure projects, the Forest Department announced plans to allocate land for glamping sites under a revenue-sharing model with Green Tourism Private Limited. This eco-friendly initiative blends comfort, security, and sustainability—offering visitors an immersive experience in nature without compromising environmental integrity. The board will finalize the project’s financial structure and remove the earlier ten percent concession clause following a review.
The meeting also addressed other vital areas, including simplifying NOC procedures for international tourists, expanding professional training in hospitality, and resolving land conversion issues in Mankiyal. These actions aim to improve tourism management and attract more global visitors to the region.
A Cultural Mission Beyond Tourism
Concluding the session, Dr. Abdul Samad highlighted that developing tourism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is not merely an economic effort but a cultural mission. It connects people with the living civilization and the timeless beauty of the province. Guided by the Chief Secretary’s vision, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is stepping into a new era—where every journey leads to discovery, every destination tells a story, and every traveler experiences the peace, culture, and hospitality of the land.
Finally, the board reaffirmed its dedication to sustainable tourism, strong public-private partnerships, and innovative models that strengthen the economy while showcasing the rich natural and cultural identity of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on the global stage.