KP sets course for global tourism breakthrough

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Peshawar
A landmark meeting of the Joint Management Board (JMB) — comprising Green Tourism (Private) Limited and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Tourism Department — was held in Peshawar under the chair of Dr. Abdul Samad, Secretary for Culture, Tourism, Archaeology & Museums. The session reviewed key initiatives set to redefine the future of tourism in the province.
Reflecting the dynamic vision of the Chief Secretary Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the meeting reaffirmed the government’s resolve to turn the province into a global tourism destination — where culture meets nature, and progress walks hand in hand with preservation.
The Chief Secretary’s vision emphasizes sustainable development, responsible tourism, and empowerment of local communities as custodians of their natural and cultural heritage.
The JMB approved the inclusion of a 45 km road in the upcoming tourism project proposed for Saudi investment — a milestone expected to open new routes of accessibility and adventure.
Both Green Tourism and the Tourism Department agreed to strengthen financial partnerships for flagship ventures including the Hund Theme Park (Swabi) and International Tourism Zones -ITZs across the province.
Collaboration was also agreed for Ganool ITZ (Mansehra) to engage global partners in sustainable tourism development. In a major step towards eco-friendly hospitality, the Forest Department will allocate land for glamping sites on a revenue-sharing model with Green Tourism — blending nature with comfort and conservation.
The company will submit its financial plans for JMB approval, after which pricing structures will be finalized.
The Board also decided to withdraw the existing ten percent waiver clause following financial review.
The Tourism Department sought partner support in easing NOCs for foreign tourists, strengthening hospitality training programs, and enhancing PAITHOM for professional tourism management. The matter of Mankiyal land replacement will be taken up with the provincial government for early resolution.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Abdul Samad said that tourism in KP is “not merely an economic pursuit but a cultural mission — a journey to connect people with the province’s living heritage and timeless landscapes.” He added that under the leadership of the Chief Secretary, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is embracing “a new tourism era — where every road leads to discovery, every site tells a story, and every traveler carries home the warmth of peace, culture, and hospitality.” The meeting concluded with a renewed pledge to promote sustainable tourism, deepen public-private collaboration, and build tourism models that celebrate the identity and spirit of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.