Arif Habib, through the Arif Habib Consortium, has emerged as the winning bidder in Pakistan’s landmark privatization of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).
The consortium successfully acquired a 75 percent managing stake in the national flag carrier with the highest bid of PKR 135 billion, concluding the third round of bidding under the government-led privatization drive.
Visit Times of Karachi website for the latest news-related content
This transaction stands as one of the most significant privatization deals in Pakistan’s recent history.
Who is Arif Habib?
Arif Habib is a prominent Pakistani business leader, entrepreneur, and industrialist, best known as the founder and Chief Executive of the Arif Habib Group, one of Pakistan’s leading diversified conglomerates.
Over decades, he has played a pivotal role in shaping Pakistan’s capital markets and industrial landscape.
Background and Early Life
Born in 1953 (or 1952) in Karachi into a Memon family, Arif Habib’s formal education concluded after the 10th grade.
He began his professional journey in the brokerage business in 1970, steadily growing his enterprise into one of Pakistan’s most influential financial and industrial groups through determination, market expertise, and long-term vision.
Key Business Achievements
Arif Habib Group:
Built a vast business empire with interests spanning financial services, fertilizers, cement, steel, real estate, and energy.
READ: Arif Habib Group wins PIA auction with Rs 135bln bid
PIA Acquisition:
As of December 23, 2025, the Arif Habib Consortium acquired a 75% controlling stake in Pakistan International Airlines for PKR 135 billion, marking a historic milestone in Pakistan’s privatization program.
Capital Market Leadership:
Served as the elected President/Chairman of the Karachi Stock Exchange (now Pakistan Stock Exchange) six times. He was also a founding member and former Chairman of the Central Depository Company of Pakistan (CDC).
Major Group Companies:
Chairs and leads several high-profile enterprises, including Fatima Fertilizer Company, Aisha Steel Mills, and Javedan Corporation, the developer of Naya Nazimabad, one of Pakistan’s largest urban housing projects.
Public Service and Advisory Roles
Economic Policy & Advisory:
Has served as a member of the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council (EAC) and contributed to various government bodies, including the Privatisation Commission and the Board of Investment.
Think-Tanks:
Played an advisory role as part of the Prime Minister’s think-tank on COVID-19–related economic challenges, offering insights on economic stabilization and recovery.
Follow the Times of Karachi channel on WhatsApp
Social Contributions
Arif Habib is actively involved in social welfare through the Arif Habib Foundation. He also serves on the boards of several respected non-profit and educational institutions, including the Karachi School of Business and Leadership (KSBL), Fatimid Foundation, and the Habib University Foundation, supporting education, healthcare, and community development initiatives.
