Tourist Services
Introduction to the Directorate
The Directorate of Tourist Services, part of the Culture, Tourism, Antiquities & Archives Department of the Government of Sindh, serves as a regulatory body for various tourism-related establishments. Transferred to the Tourism Department, Government of Sindh on March 31, 2011, following the 18th Constitutional Amendment Act, the Directorate was previously under the Ministry of Tourism, Government of Pakistan, with its Karachi Regional Office established in 1977. The Directorate oversees the standards and compliance of services provided by hotels, restaurants, travel agencies, and tour guides across Sindh, aiming to foster a safe, high-quality, and welcoming environment for both local and international tourists.
Core Functions and Regulatory Responsibilities
The Directorate is responsible for implementing key legislation aimed at regulating tourism services, ensuring that standards are met across the industry. Its primary functions include:
- Enforcing the Pakistan Hotels and Restaurants Act, 1976, which sets standards for amenities and service quality in hotels and restaurants to enhance the experience for tourists.
- Overseeing the Travel Agencies Act, 2011, which regulates and controls travel agency operations to promote a professional and ethical standard in the industry.
- Enforcing the Sindh Tourist Guide Act, 2011, which standardizes and certifies tourist guides, ensuring they meet the competencies required to provide informed and safe guidance to tourists. Through these regulatory functions, the Directorate plays a vital role in maintaining quality, safety, and professionalism in Sindh’s tourism sector.
Quality Standards and Development
The Directorate is committed to raising the bar for tourism services within Sindh, focusing on quality standards and promoting consistent improvement. It collaborates closely with industry stakeholders to help establishments comply with national regulations and meet high standards of service. By enforcing rigorous guidelines and promoting ethical practices, the Directorate ensures that hotels, restaurants, travel agencies, and tour guides deliver exceptional service to all visitors. This dedication to quality fosters a positive image of Sindh as a tourist-friendly destination, creating memorable and enjoyable experiences for those who explore its cultural, historical, and natural wonders.
Sustainable Tourism Growth in Sindh
The Directorate’s vision extends beyond regulatory oversight to fostering sustainable tourism growth in Sindh. By supporting compliance and promoting high standards, the Directorate aims to develop a tourism ecosystem that benefits the local economy while preserving Sindh’s cultural and natural heritage. This approach supports Sindh’s tourism industry as a key economic driver, providing job opportunities and promoting regional growth. The Directorate encourages the adoption of sustainable practices among industry players to ensure that tourism activities protect and celebrate Sindh’s unique heritage for generations to come.
Our Social Networking
Directorate General Culture – Sindh, Liaquat Memorial Library Near PTV Centre, Stadium Road Karachi.
Mon – Fri: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
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