ISLAMABAD, Nov 2 (Wealth Pakistan): The Abu Dhabi–based investment company ADQ has formally approached the Government of Pakistan through the UAE Embassy to manage and operate Islamabad International Airport under a government-to-government (G2G) framework. The development marks a major milestone in Pakistan’s plan to modernize its airports through international partnerships.
ADQ’s Interest and Consultations
According to documents reviewed by Wealth Pakistan, the Abu Dhabi Developmental Holding Company (ADQ) has conducted several site visits and multiple meetings with Pakistani officials to discuss the draft G2G framework agreement. The draft has already been vetted by the Law Division.
The government has also initiated talks with other international investment authorities to explore further interest. A meeting was held on July 3, 2025, with representatives from the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), the Ministry of Defence, and the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA). Preliminary information was shared, and QIA indicated that it would evaluate the proposal internally. However, a formal response from Qatar is still awaited.
Engagement with Gulf Partners
Meanwhile, a delegation from Saudi Arabia, comprising members of the Saudi-Pak Joint Business Council, visited Pakistan from October 7 to 11, 2025. Following directions from the SIFC, detailed presentations on Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad airports were provided to the delegation. The Government of Pakistan is awaiting further feedback or an expression of interest from the Saudi side.
Negotiation Committee Formed
To advance discussions, the federal cabinet, acting on the recommendation of the Cabinet Committee on Inter-Governmental Commercial Transactions (CCoIGCT), has established a high-level negotiation committee. The committee, chaired by the Advisor to the Minister for Privatization, has been tasked with negotiating the outsourcing of Islamabad International Airport with ADQ.
A Pakistani delegation led by the Advisor to the Prime Minister on Privatization, along with senior officials from the Ministry of Defence and the Pakistan Airports Authority, will visit the UAE soon. The visit aims to finalize discussions with ADQ’s leadership and review the draft agreement.
Modernization of Pakistan’s Airports
The Government of Pakistan is actively pursuing a strategy to outsource the landside management of its three major international airports — Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore. Under this plan, the Pakistan Airports Authority will retain control of airside operations such as navigation, safety oversight, and landing charges.
The private operator will manage passenger services, terminal facilities, and both aeronautical and non-aeronautical revenues. This includes retail, food, logistics, and other commercial operations within the airport premises.
Ensuring Transparency and Efficiency
Officials say the outsourcing initiative is part of a broader policy to modernize key national infrastructure through transparent and competitive partnerships. The goal is to align Pakistan’s airport operations with international standards and create investor-friendly, efficient aviation hubs.
The government believes that collaboration with experienced international partners such as ADQ will enhance service quality, attract new investment, and strengthen Pakistan’s connectivity with the global economy.