Islamabad: The World Bank–financed Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Integrated Tourism Development Project (KITE) continues to make steady progress, enhancing infrastructure and generating employment across the province.
The USD 100 million project, approved in June 2019 and scheduled to close on June 30, 2026, aims to improve tourism-enabling infrastructure, strengthen destination management, and promote sustainable tourism development in KP.
In 2025, several notable milestones were achieved. The Dera Ismail Khan Museum was opened to the public, illumination works were completed at the UNESCO-listed Takht-e-Bahi Monastery, and key tourist destinations, including Kumrat, received new signage. Snow removal vehicles were also delivered to authorities in Galiyat, Kumrat, and Kaghan, improving year-round accessibility for tourists.
The project has exceeded several social and employment targets. Over 275,000 individuals have benefited from improved infrastructure and services, including public facilities and tourist support stations. Women accounted for more than 33,000 of these beneficiaries. On the employment front, the initiative has generated 2,664 direct and indirect jobs, while more than 100,000 labor days were created through construction and rehabilitation works.
Private sector participation is also on track, with the Thandiani Integrated Tourism Zone alone attracting USD 42 million in pipeline investments. Seven major planning and feasibility studies, including Destination Investment and Management Plans and heritage conservation plans, have been completed to strengthen institutional planning and encourage private investment.
Digital transformation initiatives under the project, including the Tourism Management Information System (TMIS) and e-booking platforms, are fully operational and have received recognition for innovation in the public sector.
According to the latest Implementation Status & Results Report, the project’s overall performance is rated “Moderately Satisfactory,” with most outcome indicators achieved or on track, positioning Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to further leverage tourism as a driver of economic growth and cultural preservation.
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