Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and Funadiq Travel & Tourism Services, the official marketing representative of the Saudi Tourism Authority, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance air travel and tourism between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. The agreement was formalized in Islamabad on September 23, 2024, coinciding with Saudi Arabia’s 94th National Day.
The partnership aims to promote Saudi Arabia as a top travel destination for Pakistanis through joint marketing initiatives, co-branded travel packages, and sustainable tourism practices. This collaboration also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the kingdom’s economy through tourism.
PIA’s Chief Executive Officer, Amir Hayat, emphasized the significance of the partnership, saying, “This agreement underscores PIA’s commitment to providing improved travel experiences for our passengers. By collaborating with Funadiq and the Saudi Tourism Authority, we aim to make travel between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia more convenient and enjoyable.”
Funadiq CEO, Mohammad Salman Arain, expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to work with PIA to promote Saudi Arabia as a world-class tourist destination. Together, we will ensure that Pakistani travelers experience seamless journeys while exploring the kingdom’s rich cultural and historical heritage.”
The partnership is expected to strengthen ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, enhance tourism opportunities, and open new avenues for cooperation. Each year, thousands of Pakistanis travel to Saudi Arabia for Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages. The two countries share deep cultural, defense, and economic connections, with Saudi Arabia hosting over two million Pakistanis and serving as a major contributor to Pakistan’s remittance inflows.
