Pakistan Tourism Booms: Final Rentals Meet Growing Demand

When Final Rentals announced its official launch at Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad International Airports, it was framed as a "full-circle moment" for Founder and CEO Ammar Akhtar. Born in Karachi and now leading a global platform across 60 countries, Akhtar's return is deeply emotional.

However, beyond the sentiment lies a hard-nosed business strategy. Final Rentals did not choose Pakistan by accident. This launch is a calculated response to a shifting global travel landscape, a burgeoning tourism economy, and a massive, underserved digital market.

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For years, the narrative surrounding Pakistan travel was dominated by logistical challenges. Tourists arrived with wonder but often faced friction when securing ground transport. Final Rentals is changing that narrative.

By integrating local expertise with global technology, the company is ensuring that when the world comes to Pakistan, they don't just visit—they explore with confidence.

Let's take a look at why Final Rentals is making a big bet on Pakistan now, and how this launch aligns with the country's future tourism prospects.

The Founder's Vision: From 800 Conversations to 60 Countries

The idea for Final Rentals was born from a frustration Akhtar saw firsthand while working in the global car rental industry. He observed that local and independent operators were being pushed aside by multinational brands on major travel platforms.

Even when these local owners offered better service and deeper local knowledge, they struggled to be seen.

Instead of accepting that imbalance, Akhtar built something different. In the early days, he personally spoke with over 800 car rental owners worldwide. He listened to their challenges and shared one simple vision: bring them together under one brand that supports them, not replaces them. Today, that vision has grown into a fast-moving international network across more than 60 countries.

Launching in Pakistan feels especially meaningful because it connects the global headquarters in Cardiff with the streets of Karachi.

"From the streets of Karachi to building a global platform serving more than 60 countries, this launch is incredibly emotional for me," Akhtar said. "Final Rentals is now serving Pakistan from our headquarters in Cardiff, and that full-circle journey means everything."

This launch is proof that you can build something global without losing your roots, and that Pakistan deserves world-class digital travel services.

The Tourism Resurgence: A Market Ready to Boom

For the past decade, Pakistan has been quietly transforming its image from a transit destination to a primary travel hotspot.

Following significant visa liberalization policies introduced in 2019 and a post-pandemic travel rebound, the numbers tell a compelling story. Final Rentals is positioning itself at the forefront of this resurgence.

According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the Travel and Tourism sector's contribution to Pakistan's GDP is projected to grow significantly over the next decade, potentially outpacing the global average growth rate.

This economic shift is driven by a renewed interest in Pakistan's diverse landscapes, ranging from the southern beaches of Karachi to the northern peaks of Gilgit-Baltistan.

Before the pandemic, tourist arrivals were climbing steadily. In 2023 alone, Pakistan saw a resurgence in leisure travel, particularly in the Northern Areas, which have become viral destinations on global social media platforms.

By launching at Islamabad (ISB), Lahore (LHE), and Karachi (KHI), Final Rentals covers the 3 primary gateways that handle the vast majority of international and domestic leisure traffic.

These 3 airports serve as the critical entry points for the influx of visitors drawn by the country's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Tourism infrastructure often lags behind demand. While hotels are booking up, ground transport has remained fragmented.

Final Rentals bridges this gap by digitizing the "last mile" of the travel journey, ensuring that the surge in tourism is met with world-class mobility standards.

The company aims to modernize the car rental experience in Pakistan while creating a seamless bridge between local expertise and global standards.

The Power of the Diaspora: 9 Million Potential Customers

The core demographic for Final Rentals in Pakistan isn't just the international backpacker; it is the Overseas Pakistani. This represents a massive, loyal, and high-value customer base that has historically been underserved by digital platforms.

There are approximately 9 to 10 million Overseas Pakistanis living abroad, primarily in the United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, United States, and Saudi Arabia. This demographic travels home frequently for holidays, weddings, and family visits.

They possess high spending power and, crucially, they expect international standards of service. When these travelers land in Pakistan, they are often bringing family members who are visiting the country for the first time, making reliability paramount.

The pain point has historically been significant. An Overseas Pakistani landing in Lahore would traditionally have to negotiate with local vendors upon arrival, dealing with cash payments and uncertain vehicle quality. This lack of transparency created anxiety for families traveling with tight schedules.

Final Rentals solves this directly. "For the first time, Pakistanis and Overseas Pakistanis can secure a rental car digitally before even boarding their flight," Akhtar added. By allowing bookings from London, Dubai, or New York for pickup in Karachi, Final Rentals removes the anxiety of arrival. It offers the transparency and peace of mind that the diaspora is accustomed to in Western markets.

This capability changes the whole experience for families who land knowing their car is already booked.

Digital Adoption: The Infrastructure is Ready

A global digital marketplace cannot function without digital literacy and connectivity. Pakistan has undergone a silent digital revolution in the last 5 years, making the timing of this launch precise.

Pakistan now boasts over 120 million internet users, with 4G coverage expanding rapidly across major highways and tourist corridors. This connectivity ensures that travelers can access their booking confirmations, navigate using GPS, and contact support even while moving between cities.

Furthermore, smartphone penetration has crossed the 50% mark, meaning the barrier to entry for app-based or mobile-web booking is lower than ever.

The rise of digital payments and credit card usage among the middle and upper classes facilitates seamless online transactions, a prerequisite for Final Rentals' model. In the early days of Final Rentals, Akhtar spoke to 800 rental owners who struggled to be seen online. In Pakistan, the audience is now online.

The supply (local rental companies) and the demand (travelers) are both digital-ready; they just needed a trusted bridge.

This digital readiness also supports the company's commitment to transparency. Through Final Rentals, travelers connect with trusted local partners, clear pricing, and reliable support.

At the same time, Pakistani rental companies gain global exposure, international customers, and the chance to compete on a world stage.

Empowering Local Enterprise: The SME Revolution

Final Rentals is not a traditional rental agency; it is a marketplace. Its model is built on local ownership. In Pakistan, this aligns perfectly with the need to support Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

The launch partner, Fast Track Travel & Tours, represents the tier of professional local operators Final Rentals seeks to empower.

Established in 2011 by entrepreneur Ahtsham Ali, Fast Track Car Rental has built a strong reputation serving airlines, NGOs, and blue-chip corporate clients across Pakistan.

The company has operated for over 12 years, proving its stability and commitment to service excellence. Fast Track shares Final Rentals' vision for technology, innovation, and globally connected mobility, making the partnership a natural fit.

By integrating local fleets into a global network, Final Rentals allows Pakistani business owners to access international customers without losing their brand identity.

This partnership signals a shift from informal, cash-based rentals to formalized, invoice-driven corporate and leisure mobility.

A robust car rental ecosystem supports drivers, maintenance staff, and logistics coordinators. As tourism grows, so does the employment footprint of partner companies.

Commenting on the partnership, Ahtsham Ali said: "This is a very special moment for us, bringing an affordable global car rental brand to Pakistan that was created by a Pakistani-origin entrepreneur.

We are excited to work with Finalrentals to build a trusted, household name for customers visiting Pakistan from all around the world."

Safety, Trust, and Standardization

The biggest hurdle for tourism in emerging markets is trust. Travelers worry about hidden costs, vehicle safety, and insurance coverage.

Final Rentals addresses this through a rigorous vetting process. Only established operators like Fast Track are onboarded, ensuring a baseline of quality that independent street vendors cannot guarantee.

The platform ensures clear pricing with no hidden fees upon arrival. Backed by headquarters in Cardiff, customers have recourse and support that local-only vendors cannot provide.

This includes 24/7 customer support, ensuring that whether a traveler lands at 2 PM or 2 AM, assistance is available. This standardization is critical for attracting high-yield tourists who may have previously hesitated to self-drive or rent privately in Pakistan.

"This isn't just about car rental," Akhtar added. "It's about access. Families travel with expectations and tight schedules. Landing in Karachi, Lahore, or Islamabad knowing your car is already booked changes the whole experience." Through Final Rentals, travelers connect with trusted local partners, clear pricing, and reliable support.

The Road Ahead: A Blueprint for Asia

The launch in Pakistan is a pilot for broader expansion in South Asia. If Final Rentals can successfully standardize the car rental experience in a complex market like Pakistan, it validates the model for neighboring regions.

As the company continues expanding across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas, this launch stands out as something special.

There are several key growth indicators to watch in the coming years.

First, infrastructure projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) are maturing. As road travel between cities improves, rental demand will increase significantly.

Second, a growing middle class within Pakistan is traveling more frequently between Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad for business and leisure, driving domestic rental volume.

Third, there is significant B2B potential for Final Rentals to manage corporate fleets digitally, building on Fast Track's existing relationships with blue-chip corporate clients.

Now, Pakistanis and Overseas Pakistanis can secure a rental car digitally before even boarding their flight. It offers the kind of convenience, transparency, and peace of mind that travelers in other markets have long taken for granted, but have rarely been available locally.

FAQs for Foreign Travelers Renting in Pakistan

Is it safe to rent a car in Pakistan as a foreign traveler?

Final Rentals partners only with vetted, licensed operators like Fast Track who maintain high safety standards. All vehicles undergo regular inspections, and our platform provides 24/7 customer support. We recommend sticking to main highways and tourist areas, which are generally safe. Our local partners provide safety briefings and emergency contacts. Travel insurance is strongly recommended for added peace of mind during your journey.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent through Final Rentals?

Foreign travelers must present a valid International Driving Permit alongside their home country's driver's license. Your IDP should be obtained before arrival and must be valid for the duration of your stay. We also require your passport and a credit card for the security deposit. Drivers must be at least 21 years old with at least one year of driving experience. Some vehicle categories may require drivers to be 25 or older.

What payment methods are accepted? Is pricing transparent?

Final Rentals accepts all major international credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) through our secure online platform. All pricing is displayed upfront in USD or PKR with no hidden fees. The quoted price includes the rental rate, basic insurance, and applicable taxes. Fuel, optional extras like GPS or child seats, and any traffic fines are excluded. You'll receive a detailed confirmation email outlining all costs before your booking is finalized.

Is insurance included, and what does it cover?

All rentals include basic third-party liability insurance as required by Pakistani law. This covers damage to third parties and their property. We strongly recommend purchasing our comprehensive collision damage waiver (CDW) for additional protection, which reduces your liability for vehicle damage. Theft protection is also available. Please note that insurance doesn't cover damage from reckless driving, off-road use, or violations of rental terms. Review all coverage details carefully during booking and consider supplemental travel insurance.

What happens if I have a breakdown or accident?

Our 24/7 roadside assistance is just a phone call away. In case of breakdown, our partner will provide a replacement vehicle or arrange repairs promptly. For accidents, first ensure everyone's safety, then contact local police to file a report and call our emergency hotline immediately. Do not admit fault or move the vehicle unless instructed. Our support team will guide you through the process, coordinate with insurance providers, and arrange alternative transportation if needed. Keep all documentation for insurance claims.

Can I book before arriving, and how far in advance?

Absolutely! We highly recommend booking online before your flight through our website or app. This guarantees vehicle availability, locks in competitive rates, and saves time upon arrival. You can book from anywhere in the world using your home currency. We suggest reserving at least 3-7 days in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (April-October) and major holidays. Last-minute bookings are possible but subject to availability. You'll receive instant confirmation with pickup instructions and can modify or cancel according to our flexible policy.

Are the vehicles well-maintained and suitable for Pakistani roads?

All our partner fleets undergo rigorous maintenance schedules and safety inspections before each rental. Vehicles are equipped with air conditioning (essential for Pakistani summers), functional GPS navigation, and emergency kits. We offer various vehicle categories suitable for different terrains—sedans for city driving and SUVs for mountainous northern areas. All cars feature automatic transmission options and are fueled with quality petrol/diesel. Vehicles are cleaned and sanitized between rentals. If you encounter any mechanical issues, report them immediately for a swift replacement.

What if my flight is delayed or I arrive late at night?

Don't worry—our partners monitor flight arrivals and adjust pickup times accordingly at no extra cost. Simply provide your flight number during booking. For significant delays, contact our support team or the local partner directly using the details in your confirmation. Most airport counters operate extended hours aligned with flight schedules. For very late arrivals (after midnight), advance notice is essential to ensure staff availability. If you miss your pickup window, we'll work to arrange alternative collection or delivery to your hotel, subject to availability and possible fees.

Can I drive anywhere in Pakistan, or are there restrictions?

You can drive freely in most urban areas and major tourist destinations, including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Gilgit-Baltistan. However, some remote border areas near Afghanistan or India require special permits and are restricted. Certain mountain passes may close during the winter months due to snow. Always check current travel advisories and road conditions before long journeys. Our partners provide detailed route guidance and warn about restricted zones. Driving at night in rural areas is discouraged. Stick to main highways, keep fuel tanks full in remote regions, and inform someone of your travel plans.

How does the airport pickup process work?

Upon arrival, clear immigration and collect your baggage, then proceed to the arrivals hall where our partner's representative will meet you holding a Final Rentals signboard. If you can't locate them, call the number provided in your confirmation. You'll complete a quick vehicle inspection, sign rental documents, and receive a brief orientation on the car's features and local driving tips. The entire process typically takes 15-20 minutes. For Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad airports, counters are located near exit gates. Follow signs for "Car Rental" or ask airport staff for directions.

Final Thaughts

For Ammar Akhtar, the launch is proof that "you can build something global without losing your roots." For Pakistan, it is a signal that the country is open for business and ready for digital transformation.

Final Rentals is not just dropping cars at an airport; it is integrating Pakistan into the global travel grid.

The statistics are clear: 60 countries served globally, 120 million internet users in Pakistan, 9 to 10 million Overseas Pakistanis abroad, and 3 major airports covered. These numbers represent a massive opportunity that Final Rentals is uniquely positioned to capture.

By combining local expertise with global technology, Final Rentals is ensuring that when the world comes to Pakistan, they don't just visit—they explore with confidence.

This launch stands out as something special. A global platform returning to where the journey first began. "For me," Akhtar said, "this is more than a business milestone. It's proof that you can build something global without losing your roots, and that Pakistan deserves world-class digital travel services."

Ready to experience the new standard of travel in Pakistan?

Book your car rental at Karachi, Lahore, or Islamabad Airports.