KARACHI: Pakistan has the potential to generate up to $5 billion in healthcare tourism revenue over the next five years by attracting at least 500,000 international patients. This was the central message at the Medical Tourism Conference 2025, held at the Expo Centre Karachi during the 22nd Health Asia International Exhibition and Conferences.
Dr Emin Çakmak, Founding Chairman of the Turkish Healthcare Travel Council and Global Healthcare Travel Council, praised Pakistan’s medical capabilities: “Pakistan is a great destination with world-class doctors and surgeons, rich culture, and affordable treatment options. What it needs is an institutional framework similar to Turkey’s Healthcare Travel Council to attract patients from around the world.”
He proposed the formation of a Pakistan Healthcare Tourism Council to unify hospitals, travel agencies, and marketing firms under one umbrella, enabling Pakistan to gain global visibility. He emphasized the country’s strengths in cardiac surgery, orthopaedics, fertility treatments, cosmetic procedures, and dental care.
Dr Çakmak also recommended the creation of dedicated medical tourism zones with accredited hospitals, hotels, and recovery centers, along with improved digital recordkeeping and hygiene standards. He urged Pakistan to promote success stories of international patients treated locally.
Travel & Culture Services – Elevating Pakistan’s Healthcare Tourism
As a pioneer in integrated tourism and wellness solutions, Travel & Culture Services is already offering specialized packages for international patients. These include:
- Rehabilitation Packages: Tailored recovery plans with physiotherapy, wellness support, and cultural excursions.
- Advanced Dental Procedures: Cosmetic and restorative treatments at significantly lower costs than Europe, yet matching or exceeding international clinical standards.
With partnerships across leading hospitals and wellness centers in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, Travel & Culture Services ensures a seamless experience—from airport pickup to post-treatment recovery. Patients from the UK, Gulf, and Central Asia are already benefiting from these high-quality, affordable services.
Government Support and Future Outlook
Arshad Qaimkhani, CEO of the Prime Minister’s Sehat Sahulat Programme, announced the upcoming launch of the Pakistan Healthcare Travel Council within a month. The council will collaborate with global counterparts to promote Pakistan as a rising hub for affordable, world-class healthcare.
With institutional support, private sector innovation, and global partnerships, Pakistan is poised to become a leading destination for medical tourism in South Asia.