ISLAMABAD – The federal government has included Islamabad Airport in its active privatisation programme, as part of the ongoing effort to modernise state-owned assets. The Ministry of Privatisation confirmed that this move aligns with similar steps for Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport and Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport.
The privatisation of these three major airports aims to improve efficiency, enhance service quality, upgrade infrastructure, and attract both domestic and international investment. Officials said the initiative is expected to maximise revenue while creating a competitive environment for private-sector participation.
According to sources, the decision effectively ends months of stalled discussions with potential partners, including the United Arab Emirates. Pakistan has held talks with investors from the UAE, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and other countries as part of a wider effort to modernise the aviation sector.
Under the new framework, airport operations will be outsourced through management contracts or long-term commercial concessions. The government emphasised that the shift from a G2G approach to open bidding is driven purely by economic and procedural considerations.
Officials said the competitive process ensures transparency, fair competition, and the best outcome for Pakistan’s economy. They also noted that the process remains open to all eligible entities, including investors from partner countries and beyond.
The Ministry of Privatisation clarified reports suggesting the cancellation of a proposed agreement with the UAE. “No agreement or lease was ever signed for any of the airports, including Islamabad Airport,” a ministry spokesperson said.
Authorities further highlighted that the privatisation process will prioritise inclusivity, welcoming both local and foreign participants. This approach aims to strengthen international partnerships while delivering optimal results for Pakistan’s aviation sector.
The inclusion of Islamabad Airport in the open bidding process marks a significant step in the government’s broader privatisation drive. Officials believe this strategy will improve operational efficiency, enhance infrastructure, and position Pakistan’s airports competitively on the global stage.
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The ministry stressed that ongoing engagement with international partners will continue, ensuring a transparent and effective privatisation process.
