Tourism Can Help Address Pakistan’s Economic Crisis – But Not In Its Current Form

Tourism is helping economies thrive around the world. A prominent example is that of the Maldives, which receives 60% of total GDP through tourism. Palau and Grenada get 48% and 40% respectively.

Pakistan has unparalleled global attractions like Fairy Meadows, Rakaposhi, Ratti Gali Lake, Nanga Parbat, Malam Jabba and many others. This is indeed blessed with breathtaking natural landscapes. Moreover, traditional Pakistani hospitality is matchless.

In recent years, Pakistan has put great emphasis on tourism, with Imran Khan and other government officials visiting various local places to boost the sector.

But international tourism remains limited to a few parts of the country. Also, Pakistan isn’t exactly on everyone’s travel bucket list.

Those who have set up travel agencies in Pakistan need to be facilitated. Many youngsters have entered the industry, highlighting the beauty of Pakistan through social media, despite the infrastructural lags hindering progress

For that, we need to work on modern-day basics, ranging from quality health facilities to high-speed internet, from digital banking to hotels. The unregulated hotel industry has dented local ecosystems and diluted the serenity of landscapes.

Transport needs a lot of work as well, and can’t be limited to coasters. Those who have set up travel agencies that organise tours in Pakistan also need to be incentivised and facilitated. Many youngsters have entered the industry, highlighting the beauty of Pakistan through social media, despite the infrastructural lags hindering progress.

The government must regulate the infrastructure planning and the inflow of tourists to conserve the scenery and reduce the carbon footprint, while at the same time developing the sites. As responsible citizens, it is our duty as well to help conserve the natural beauty of our motherland.

We need to work on the basics, from high-speed internet to digital banking. The unregulated hotel industry has dented the local ecosystems and diluted the landscape serenity

Indeed, Pakistani tourism isn’t limited to the North or naturally scenic areas. Even urban centres offer places like the Kartarpur Corridor, Lahore’s Walled City, Mohenjo Daro, Karachi’s seaside, and many others that carry historical and cultural significance.

Let’s not forget that Pakistan has remained in the grip of terrorism for years, damaging our sports and tourism. However, Pakistan’s continued struggle to eradicate terrorism and revive peace — especially through successful military operations — is being acknowledged by the world, signaling another positive for tourism in the country.

In his 2019 visit American vlogger Drew Binsky said Pakistan is “absolutely amazing.” He maintained that the hospitality that he received here was not matched by that in 162 other countries that he visited.

Reportedly, Rosie Gabrielle from Canada embraced Islam inspired by the people of Pakistan. This would also help potential travelers’ perception of Pakistan as a safe and friendly destination.