Report: Hurish shah FT:
ISLAMABAD –The 2nd Pakistan Tourism, Sports & Family Festival 2026 will be held from November 6 to 8 at Pakistan Sports Complex, Islamabad, to showcase the country’s cultural diversity and tourism potential, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Tourism Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan announced.
He made the announcement at the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) during a ceremony marking the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ICCI and the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) to promote tourism and ensure the successful organisation of the festival.
The three-day event will feature paragliding, rock climbing, tent pegging, a vintage car show, hot air balloons, cultural performances, traditional crafts, food stalls and family entertainment. Organisers expect approximately 150,000 visitors.
Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan said tourism could create economic opportunities and strengthen Pakistan’s international image. He stressed the importance of inviting international content creators to showcase the country’s attractions.
ICCI President Mohammad Zikria Akbar Zia said Pakistan had significant tourism potential, particularly in Swat, Chitral, Gilgit and Skardu. He highlighted the need to improve tourism infrastructure, air connectivity and international outreach, adding that tourism could drive economic growth, attract investment and generate employment.
ICCI Senior Vice President Mohammad Ashfaq Hussain Chatha stressed the importance of private-sector participation, while ICCI Vice President Mohammad Waqas Khan Swati assured support for the festival through business community engagement and promotional activities.
Former ICCI President Sardar Tahir Mehmood also welcomed the initiative, saying it would help promote tourism and project a positive image of Pakistan.
The ceremony was attended by ICCI Executive Committee members, business leaders and representatives of the hospitality industry.
