Islamabad: The government has decided to move Islamabad International Airport to the active privatisation list after talks with the United Arab Emirates failed to move forward. The decision comes after the UAE showed a lack of interest in outsourcing the airport’s management.
Earlier, Pakistan was in discussions with the UAE to outsource the operations of Islamabad Airport under a government-to-government framework. However, the process stalled due to repeated delays from the UAE side.
Officials said the UAE did not nominate any company to take over airport operations despite several reminders. This lack of response was taken as a clear sign of disinterest.
Pakistan sent a final call letter to the UAE seeking clarity. In reply, the UAE confirmed it was unable to name any nominated entity and was not interested in continuing the process.
Following this, the government approved a proposal to include Islamabad International Airport in the active privatisation list. This move follows the recent privatisation steps taken in the aviation sector.
Sources said the UAE had earlier requested the inclusion of Karachi and Lahore airports in the framework agreement. The Pakistani government did not agree to expand the deal beyond Islamabad Airport.
Several draft agreements were exchanged between Pakistan Airports Authority and UAE officials. High-level meetings were also held in Abu Dhabi to finalise the arrangement, but no breakthrough was achieved.
The Privatisation Division later proposed adding Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore airports to the active privatisation list. The cabinet body approved Karachi and Lahore airports, while Islamabad was initially kept out.
After further delays and no clear commitment from the UAE, the government decided to end the G2G process. Islamabad International Airport has now been moved toward privatisation.
Officials say the decision aims to avoid further delays and open the airport to broader investment opportunities. The government believes privatisation can improve efficiency and service standards in the aviation sector.
