In a significant move to unlock the tourism potential of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Advisor to the Chief Minister on Tourism, Culture, Archaeology, and Museums, Zahid Chanzeb, has stressed the need to grant legal status and officially declare new tourist zones under the Annual Development Program (ADP) 2025-26.

He made these remarks during a high-level meeting held at his office in Peshawar on Monday with the Secretary of the Department of Tourism and Culture, Dr. Muhammad Bakhtiar Khan, and the newly appointed Director General of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority (KPCTA), Habibullah Arif.

Advisor Chanzeb pointed out that several locations across the province hold immense potential for tourism development and must be formally recognized as tourist zones to ensure their sustainable growth.

Congratulating Habibullah Arif on his new role, Chanzeb expressed confidence that his leadership will help resolve the longstanding challenges faced by the KPCTA and steer it in a dynamic new direction.

During the meeting, Secretary Dr. Muhammad Bakhtiar Khan briefed the attendees that all essential documentation for granting legal status to the proposed tourist sites has been completed. He confirmed that these initiatives will be included in the upcoming ADP 2025-26, and the public will soon start to experience their positive impact—particularly in boosting the tourism sector and enhancing the provincial economy.

DG KPCTA Habibullah Arif reaffirmed the Authority’s dedication to actively promoting tourism and cultural heritage. He emphasized his commitment to revitalizing the institution and expanding its outreach and effectiveness.

In his concluding remarks, Advisor Zahid Chanzeb reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to practical and strategic measures aimed at promoting tourism and preserving cultural assets, with the goal of positioning Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as a leading international tourism destination.