Islamabad International Airport has been incorporated under the privatization scheme.
The government has incorporated Islamabad International Airport into its privatization initiative under a long-term concession framework and is evaluating potential methods for outsourcing the operations of airports in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore, including management contracts and extended commercial concessions.
The Privatization Commission has included Islamabad International Airport in the active privatization agenda, consistent with the ongoing initiatives for Karachi and Lahore airports.
The panel stated that the government’s primary objectives encompass promoting efficiency, improving service delivery, maximizing income generation, updating infrastructure, and encouraging both domestic and foreign private sector investment.
It stated that positive interaction is under progress with institutions from esteemed partner nations, including the United Arab Emirates, Türkiye, and Saudi Arabia, along with other global stakeholders.
The statement indicated that these initiatives match with Pakistan’s comprehensive economic goal to foster mutually advantageous collaboration focused on modernizing the aviation sector.
The Privatization Commission stated that it has acknowledged erroneous news regarding the cancelation of a proposed agreement for Islamabad International Airport and has firmly refuted these claims.
Advancements achieved in the outsourcing of Islamabad International Airport following the privatization of PIA.
It was noted that assertions of the annulment of any lease deal with the United Arab Emirates are erroneous and deceptive, since no such agreement or lease has been executed for Islamabad International Airport or any other airport.
The commission said that in November 2025, owing to significant interest from many investors in these concessions, the government opted to transition from a government-to-government (G2G) approach to an open bidding process for all three airports.
It was underscored that within this competitive framework, all local and international investors will have equitable opportunities to engage in the bidding process.
The decision lacks any political or diplomatic background and is solely economic and procedural in character.
The Privatization Commission stated that the competitive procedure for airport outsourcing will emphasize inclusion and invite participation from all qualified companies, especially those from esteemed partner nations, while ensuring equitable chances for both local and foreign investors.
The commission asserts that these principles seek to enhance openness and equitable competition, yield optimal results for Pakistan’s economy, and fortify durable partnerships with international allies.
Associated Subjects