By Ayesha Saba
It started with a quiet but important move — one that could reshape how Pakistan’s airports are managed. Abu Dhabi–based investment company ADQ has formally reached out to the Government of Pakistan to take over the management and operation of Islamabad International Airport under a government-to-government deal. This marks a major step in Islamabad Airport outsourcing efforts aimed at improving efficiency and attracting foreign investment.
ADQ’s Formal Approach to Pakistan Government
According to documents reviewed by this reporter, ADQ has already made several visits to Islamabad Airport and held meetings with Pakistani officials to go over the draft agreement. The country’s Law Division has also examined the draft to ensure it fits legal requirements.
Government Engages with Other Global Investors
At the same time, the government is keeping its options open. Officials have held early discussions with other major investors to see who else might be interested.
On July 3, 2025, representatives from the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), the Ministry of Defence, and the Pakistan Airports Authority met to discuss possible collaboration. QIA said it would review the proposal internally, though a formal response has yet to arrive.
Saudi Delegation Explores Airport Investment
Adding to the momentum, a Saudi Arabian delegation visited Pakistan from October 7 to 11, 2025, as part of the Saudi Pak Joint Business Council. Acting on instructions from SIFC, Pakistan presented detailed briefings on the Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad airports. Officials say they are now waiting for a reply or a clear show of interest from the Saudi side.
High-Level Committee Formed for Negotiations
To move the process forward, the Cabinet Committee on Inter-Governmental Commercial Transactions (CCoIGCT) submitted a summary to the federal cabinet. In response, the cabinet formed a high-level negotiation committee, led by the advisor to the minister for privatization. This committee will lead talks with ADQ to finalize terms for outsourcing Islamabad International Airport.
Pakistan’s Airport Outsourcing Strategy
A Pakistani delegation — including senior officials from the Ministry of Defence and the Pakistan Airports Authority — is also set to visit the United Arab Emirates soon. Their mission is to meet ADQ executives and discuss the proposed agreement in detail.
This plan is part of a broader government strategy to outsource the landside operations of Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad airports. The Pakistan Aviation Authority will still control the airside functions, such as air navigation, landing fees, and safety operations. The private partner will handle passenger services, terminal operations, and other commercial activities.
Push for Modern and Investor-Friendly Airports
Officials say the outsourcing plan is central to Pakistan’s push to modernize key infrastructure through foreign partnerships. The goal is to make airports more efficient, profitable, and globally competitive.
The government insists the process will remain transparent and competitive, promising that any agreements will meet international standards. With ADQ’s growing interest and other investors showing early curiosity, Pakistan’s major airports could soon begin a major transformation — from state-run facilities to modern, investor-friendly hubs ready to serve a new era of travelers.
Author Profile
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Ayesha Saba is an economic journalist advocating for Pakistan's shift from unstable farming to high-value sectors.
Her sharp analysis of the central bank's report spotlights tourism and technology as vital engines for job creation and resilience, urging urgent policy pivots toward a **diverse and sustainable future.
