The 25th International Forum for Religious Tourism (IFR 2026) wrapped up in Lahore after drawing more than 35,000 visitors over two days, cementing its status as one of the region’s leading platforms for the religious travel industry.
Exhibitor Turnout
The forum was organized by Air Wings Travels, in collaboration with Arab International Co. and Asfar Exhibition & Management Organizing LLC. It featured 60+ exhibitors from Saudi Arabia, spanning Hajj and Umrah services, hospitality, transportation, accommodation, and related travel solutions — giving Pakistani agencies direct access to Saudi-side suppliers in one venue.
High-Profile Attendance
Chief guests at the event included Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, and Chairman of the Pakistan Ulema Council and Special Representative to the PM on the Middle East and Interfaith Harmony, Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi.
Organizing Leadership
The forum was led by Muhammad Aminullah, Chairman of Air Wings Travels, and Shaista Zafar, Director of Air Wings Travels, whose efforts brought together leading Saudi Umrah operators, hotels, and travel agencies to build B2B partnerships across the two markets.
Why This Matters for the Trade
With 60+ Saudi exhibitors and 35,000+ attendees in a single venue, IFR remains one of the highest-density B2B touchpoints for Pakistani agencies looking to source Hajj and Umrah packages, hotel allotments, and ground transport partnerships directly — reinforcing Pakistan’s weight as a source market in the global religious tourism industry.