Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore airports’ outsourcing open to global bidders

Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore airports’ outsourcing open to global bidders

Open bidding plan for major airports sparks fresh investor buzz. File photo

January, 25 2026

ISLAMABAD (Web Desk): Airport outsourcing for Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi has shifted to open bidding, a move aimed at boosting competition and attracting wider investor interest.

The Privatisation Commission announced that the outsourcing of the country’s three largest airports will no longer follow the government to government route. Instead, an open bidding process will be used to allow both local and foreign investors to compete on equal terms.

Officials said the change was made after strong interest from multiple investors. Open bidding is expected to create a level playing field and encourage broader participation from domestic firms and international companies.

According to the commission, the new process welcomes eligible investors from partner nations and other countries. The goal is to ensure inclusivity, fairness and transparency while securing the best possible outcome for Pakistan’s economy.

The government is reviewing different options for Islamabad International Airport, Jinnah International Airport Karachi and Allama Iqbal International Airport Lahore. These options include management contracts and long term commercial concessions.

As part of the wider privatisation drive, Islamabad airport has now been formally added to the active privatisation programme, aligning it with Karachi and Lahore airports.

The decision follows discussions with investors from the United Arab Emirates, Turkiye, Saudi Arabia and other international stakeholders.

The commission said the main targets are better efficiency, improved passenger services, higher revenue, modern infrastructure and stronger private sector investment to modernise aviation.

Separately, the Privatisation Commission has invited proposals to hire a financial adviser for the Roosevelt Hotel in New York. The aim is to form a joint venture for mixed use development of the property owned by the Pakistan government.

Proposals can be submitted by Feb 16, and the government plans to complete the transaction within one year. The adviser will test investor interest, design a marketing plan and help attract potential partners, including through “enabling expression of interest in the property from prospective investors”.