ICCD Sustainable Tourism Forum 2026 Boosts OIC Cooperation, Positions Pakistan as Tourism Hub
Karachi, January 22, 2026:
The Sustainable Tourism Forum & Expo (STF) 2026, organized by the Islamic Chamber of Commerce & Development (ICCD), concluded successfully in Karachi, highlighting opportunities for multilateral tourism cooperation among OIC countries.
Held under the theme “Transforming Tourism for Community Development”, the forum brought together ministers, policymakers, investors, and industry leaders from across the OIC region to discuss sustainable tourism development, community-led growth, and investment opportunities.
The event was hosted under the patronage of Pakistan’s Ministry of Commerce and the Board of Investment (BOI), in collaboration with FPCCI, Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), and AlBaraka Bank Pakistan.
H.E. Yousef Hassan Khalawi, Secretary General of ICCD, emphasized that sustainable tourism is about people and communities, stressing the alignment of investment, climate responsibility, and local development to deliver lasting benefits across OIC nations.
H.E. Atif Ikram Sheikh, President of FPCCI, described tourism as a key economic driver creating jobs, encouraging investment, and fostering cultural exchange. He highlighted that expanding hospitality, transport, recreation, and local enterprises will generate both skilled and unskilled employment opportunities in Pakistan.
Special messages from the Prime Minister of Pakistan and the Minister for Commerce reaffirmed the government’s commitment to boost tourism through a supportive investment environment.
Federal Minister of Investment, H.E. Qaisar Ahmed Sheikh, highlighted Pakistan’s diverse civilizations and cultural heritage, urging increased infrastructure investment to unlock tourism potential. Muhammad Atif Hanif, President & CEO of AlBaraka Bank Pakistan, stressed the importance of financial support and long-term investment frameworks for sustainable tourism development.
The forum was attended by ministers, business leaders, and stakeholders from OIC member countries including Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan, Türkiye, Iran, Ivory Coast, Malaysia, Singapore, Qatar, UAE, Egypt, Afghanistan, and others.
A Culture and Tourism Exhibition showcased Pakistan’s and other participating countries’ tourism offerings and heritage, providing delegates with insights into regional destinations and investment opportunities.
The successful conclusion of STF 2026 marks a major step toward strengthening partnerships among OIC countries and establishing Pakistan as a regional hub for sustainable tourism in the Islamic world.
