Islamabad:Pakistan’s tourism sector took another step towards a technology-driven future with the launch of GOPKZ, an artificial intelligence-powered digital tourism ecosystem, with Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan, Advisor and National Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Tourism, leading the ceremony as chief guest, says a press release.
Held at a local hotel here the launch brought together representatives of Pakistan’s tourism industry, the diplomatic community and the private sector, highlighting the country’s vast tourism potential and the growing need to connect it with technology, investment and global markets.
Sardar Yasir has emerged as a prominent voice for the development and international promotion of Pakistan’s tourism industry, advocating greater private-sector participation, investment and modern infrastructure to transform the country’s tourism potential into a sustainable economic opportunity. His presence at the GOPKZ launch underscored the growing convergence between national tourism leadership and technology-led private-sector initiatives aimed at making Pakistan a more accessible and competitive destination for international travellers.
Speaking on the occasion, he emphasised the importance of harnessing Pakistan’s immense tourism potential and creating an environment in which innovation, investment and private enterprise can contribute meaningfully to the sector’s growth.
The initiative is being led by Muhammad Shahroz Habib, Group Executive Vice President of Siddiqi Hospitality and GOPKZ, who has overseen the platform’s strategy, development and execution. The launch was also attended by Managing Director PTDC Aftab ur Rehman Rana, diplomats, tourism representatives and members of the corporate community.
For Pakistan, the significance of technology-enabled tourism extends well beyond convenience. The country possesses an extraordinary range of tourism assets, from the high mountains of Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to its historic cities, cultural heritage and coastal destinations. Yet the sector continues to face challenges in digital integration, connectivity and the ease with which visitors can discover, plan and access tourism services.
