​​Pakistan

​​Dress Code

Business attire is generally formal.
For Men: Suits or dress pants with a collared shirt and tie.
For Women: Professional dresses or business suits. It’s advisable to dress conservatively, reflecting local customs. 

​​Language

Urdu is the national language, while English is widely spoken in business and official settings. Familiarity with basic Urdu phrases can be helpful. 

Telephone

​International Dialing: To call Pakistan from abroad, use +92. For local calls, omit the leading zero from the area code.
Local SIM Cards: Available from providers like Jazz, Telenor, and Zong. Ensure your phone is unlocked.

Internet

Internet access is generally good in major cities, with many hotels and cafes offering Wi-Fi. Mobile data is also widely available. 

​​Business Hours

Government: Sunday–Thursday, approx. 8 AM–4 PM.
Private sector: Sunday–Thursday, 9 AM–5 PM.
businesses often closed Fridays.

Punctuality

While punctuality is appreciated, there can be a more relaxed attitude towards time in some contexts. However, arriving on time for meetings is recommended. 

​​Meeting Etiquette

Meetings often start with greetings and small talk. Using titles and last names is common until invited to use first names.
Exchanging business cards is standard; present them respectfully and take a moment to look at the card you receive. 

​​History of Major Football Incidents

Football (soccer) is popular, but it often competes with cricket for attention. Major incidents include:
Pakistan’s participation in the 1986 FIFA World Cup qualifiers: Though the national team did not qualify, this era saw increased interest in football.
Local club rivalries: Matches can sometimes lead to fan violence, particularly in high-stakes games. 

​​Natural Disasters

Pakistan can experience earthquakes, especially in the northern regions, as well as floods during the monsoon season (July to September). Familiarize yourself with local emergency procedures. 

​​Emergency Response

In emergencies, you can dial 15 for police and 1122 for ambulance services. Keep your hotel’s contact information handy. 

​​Medical Services

Healthcare facilities vary in quality; urban areas generally have better services. Comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is essential. 

​​Pharmacies

Pharmacies are widely available, with many offering a range of medications. Bring personal medications, along with prescriptions if necessary. 

​​Culture & Foods

​Culture: Pakistan has a rich cultural heritage with diverse traditions. Respect for local customs and religious practices is crucial.

​​Foods:
Try local specialties such as:
- Biryani: A fragrant rice dish often made with chicken or lamb, flavored with spices.
- Nihari: A slow-cooked meat stew, typically enjoyed for breakfast.
- Karahi: A spicy meat curry cooked in a wok-like vessel, often served with naan.
- Samosas: Fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes or meat, commonly enjoyed as snacks. 

​​​Others

By keeping these points in mind, you’ll be well-prepared for your business trip to Pakistan. Safe travels!
Time Zone: GMT+5.
Transport: Road travel via coach/taxi common; internal flights connect main cities.
Climate: Diverse—from arid in the south to alpine in the north. Summers can exceed 45 °C; winters can be below freezing in northern regions.