Author: holidayweekly

LAHORE: The Punjab government has launched a Rs1.5 billion heritage and tourism revival drive aimed at intertwining the province’s rich cultural, historical, and archaeological legacy with modern development. The initiative, jointly undertaken by the Tourism Department and the Directorate General of Archaeology, marks one of the most comprehensive heritage programmes in recent years, focusing on museum revitalization, archaeological expansion, and the creation of new cultural destinations. The programme seeks to emphasize the socio-cultural milieus integrated with history and heritage, considering their preservation as the truest indicator of societal progress. It aims to rekindle public engagement with Punjab’s layered past while…

By Ch. Faisal Mahmood

Theme: “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation” Today, as we join the global community in celebrating World Tourism Day 2025, we embrace the theme: “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”. This year’s theme invites us to reflect deeply on how tourism as one of the world’s largest economic sectors can be a force for positive change, especially in the face of climate change and growing socio-economic disparities. Pakistan, a land of breath-taking natural beauty, rich heritage, and warm hospitality, stands at a unique crossroads. From the majestic peaks of the Karakoram and Himalayas to the serene coastlines of Sindh and Balochistan, from the cultural…

This year, the global tourism community celebrates World Tourism Day under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.” For Pakistan’s hospitality and tourism sector, this theme carries immense significance. It reminds us that transformation is not merely about expansion but about adopting practices that ensure long-term sustainability, resilience, and inclusivity.As a hotelier, I have witnessed how tourism in Pakistan has evolved in recent years. From the snowcapped peaks of Gilgit-Baltistan to the deserts of Thar and the heritage of Mohenjo-daro, our country is gifted with treasures that can attract travelers from across the world. Yet, this potential will only be realized…

On this global day of tourism, the Government of Pakistan expresses its commitment to utilize all resources for the promotion of tourism. This year’s theme, ‘Tourism and Sustainable transformation” reflects an urgent reality. Tourism should transform into a sector based on people’s development, strengthening of our economy, and the protection of our heritage. For Pakistan, tourism is not just an industry; it is a manifestation of our national identity and pride. From the ancient civilizations of the Indus Valley to the evergreen beauty of our mountains, deserts, and coastlines, Pakistan is a land that tells a story the world is…

LONDON: Virgin Atlantic Airways (VS) will resume flights to Pakistan after receiving approval from the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). The airline is set to reconnect London Heathrow (LHR) with Karachi (KHI), Islamabad (ISB), and Lahore (LHE) starting in October 2025. The British carrier, which suspended services in 2023, will reintroduce routes via Riyadh (RUH), restoring direct connectivity between the United Kingdom and Pakistan. The move marks a renewed push to expand its long-haul network in South Asia. Virgin Atlantic (VS) will restart its operations linking London with three of Pakistan’s key cities: Karachi (KHI), Islamabad (ISB), and Lahore (LHE).…

KARACHI: In a tale straight out of David vs. Goliath, a quirky Karachi café has brewed up global headlines after defeating none other than coffee behemoth Starbucks in a trademark showdown. Meet Sattar Buksh, the café with a moustache, sass, and a knack for stirring more than just coffee. Launched in 2013 by entrepreneurs Rizwan Ahmad and Adnan Yousuf, the café quickly became a hot spot, not just for its lattes and shisha but for its cheeky branding. Its round green logo featured a moustached desi gentleman, a playful desi wink at Starbucks world-famous mermaid The resemblance sparked instant buzz.…

KARACHI: Bukhari Travel & Tourism Services hosted a mega Roadshow to visit Saudi as a partner of the Saudi tourism authority as one of the travel trade partners of Saudi tourism authority held at Marriott Hotel Karachi. In a Landmark collaboration to strengthen tourism ties between the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Bukhari Travel & Tourism Services Organized a high-profile mega roadshow at the Marriott Hotel Karachi on August 27, 2025. The event aimed to highlight Saudi Arabia’s growing potential as a leading global tourism destination and to promote travel opportunities for Pakistani travellers. Key…

ISLAMABAD: The prospects of resuming direct flights between Pakistan and the United States have recently become more promising. To assess the measures needed for the reinstatement of these flights, a team from the US Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) is scheduled to arrive in Karachi soon. According to sources within the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), this marks the first time in several years that an FAA team is visiting Pakistan. During their visit, the FAA officials will conduct safety audits of Pakistan’s aviation sector, which will include inspections of aircraft maintenance, pilot licensing, flight standards, and other related areas. They…

KARACHI: This year, World Tourism Day is being marked under the United Nation’s theme ‘Tourism And Sustainable Transformation’. The occasion emphasizes the growing importance of sustainable and ecofriendly tourism, highlighting its power to foster prosperity, inclusivity, and environmental preservation. Speaking to Holiday Weekly at the Saudi Tourism Roadshow in Karachi, Syed Feyaz Ali Shah, Managing Director of Sindh Tourism Development Corporation (STDC), said the day serves as a reminder of the remarkable impact of tourism on communities and economies. “Tourism plays a vital role in cultural exchange, economic growth, and sustainable development. At STDC, we are fully committed to celebrating…