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Karachi Airport Guide

2/5 – Challenging
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Whether you have a layover, overnight sleepover or you are just quickly passing through, our Karachi Airport Guide is a great place to start planning your visit.  

I was planning to sleep in the terminal, or the business lounge, but when I went next door to the terminal, I was told that only people with tickets were allowed inside, and only 3 hours prior to the flight. – mindlesswanderer

KHI Airport Overview

The terminal at Karachi Airport (code: KHI) is divided into the East Concourse for international flights and the West Concourse primarily for domestic traffic. Travellers report that the terminal is clean, but the air conditioning and escalators are often undergoing repair. Slow security processes may have improved in recent years. Amenities include a range of shops and eateries (some are open 24 hours) and free WiFi. For added comfort while you wait, economy class passengers can pay to enter an airport lounge.

Sleeping in Karachi Airport

We do not yet have any sleep-related airport reviews.  For uninterrupted sleep, nearby hotels offer shuttle service. See the Airport Hotels section below for locations.

Read the latest traveller airport reviews for more tips. For more airport information, continue scrolling down to explore more in our Karachi Airport Guide.

Do you have a recent experience sleeping at KHI?
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Airport Hours

The airport is open 24 hours.

Rest & Relaxation Zones

No dedicated sleeping areas, quiet areas or rest zones exist. If this information has changed, click here to update this guide.

Airport Hotels

If sleeping in Karachi airport sounds like a nightmare, there are hotels nearby:

Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Karachi Airport Hotel
(0.9 mi / 1.4 km)  Upscale hotel.

Looking for more options? Browse the complete list of hotels near Karachi Airport on Expedia.

Airport Lounges

CIP Lounge (Civil Aviation Authority Lounge)
Location: Airside, International Terminal, near boarding gates.
Hours: 24 hours. Showers: No. Dedicated Rest Zone: No. Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Pay at the door (PKR 2,000–2,500 per person, depending on class of service) • Lounge membership programs • Eligible airline Business/First Class passengers.

PIA Business Plus Lounge
Location: Airside, International Terminal, near gates used by Pakistan International Airlines.
Hours: 24 hours (based on PIA flight schedules). Showers: No. Dedicated Rest Zone: No. Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Complimentary for PIA Business Plus passengers • PIA award ticket holders in Business Class • Select PIA frequent flyer elites (through airline rules).

PIA Domestic Business Plus Lounge
Location: Airside, Domestic Terminal, near PIA departure gates.
Hours: 24 hours (based on flight schedules). Showers: No. Dedicated Rest Zone: No. Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Complimentary for PIA Business Plus domestic passengers • Select frequent flyer elites.

CIP Lounge
Location: Airside, Domestic Terminal, near boarding gates.
Hours: 24 hours. Showers: No. Dedicated Rest Zone: No. Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Pay at the door (PKR 2,000 per person) • Lounge membership programs • Access for domestic Business Class passengers on select airlines.

Food & Drinks

Limited food concessions operate 24 hours, mainly serving departing international passengers. Choices overnight may be minimal, especially in the domestic area.

Mobile Charging

Charging points are available near boarding gates. Availability may vary depending on terminal and seating area.

Showers

Complimentary showers are reported to be available in the departure area.

WiFi / Internet

Free Wi-Fi is available at Karachi Airport and in lounges. Connect to the “Wateen-Free-Wi-Fi Network” and follow the login instructions.

More Airport Information

More Services, Facilities & Things To Do On A Layover

ATMs / Cash Machines – Three ATMs are available in the terminal. Fees may apply, so check with your bank regarding international withdrawal charges and daily limits before travelling.

Baggage Trolleys – Baggage trolleys are available free of charge. Porter services are also available if you prefer assistance. Reported rates: Domestic passengers: Rs. 200 • International passengers: Rs. 400. Rates may change.
Banking Services – Full-service banking is available through the following institutions: Habib Bank, National Bank of Pakistan, United Bank, and State Bank of Pakistan.

Currency Exchange – Currency exchange counters are available in both Arrivals and Departures.

Duty-Free & Shopping – Duty-free shopping is not available. A small selection of retail shops operates in the terminal.

Information Desk – There is no dedicated information desk.

Luggage Storage & Lockers – Luggage storage is reported to be available for transit passengers.

Medical Services – A medical centre is available in the International Concourse (Level 2) for basic medical assistance.

Prayer Areas – Gender-separated prayer rooms are available in Domestic and International waiting lounges, the executive lounge, and the public meet-and-greet area. Facilities for changing into ihram are also available.

Airlines
Karachi Airport is served by the following airlines: Air Arabia • Air Blue Air Indus • Air China • Emirates • Etihad Airways • Fly Dubai • Gulf Air • Iran Air • Oman Air • Pakistan International Airlines • Qatar Airways • Saudi Arabian Airlines • Shaheen Airlines • Sri Lankan • Turkish Airlines.
Airport Transportation: Getting To/From The Airport

Buses

Public buses are cheap and available from most points across Karachi but prepare to leave early, as heavy traffic is common.

Hotel Shuttles

See Airport Hotels above.

Taxis

Taxis are available 24/7 at the Arrivals concourse Lane 3. The airport recommends checking with the CAA info desk inside the airport to get an approximate cost on taxis to your destination; some taxi drivers don’t know shortcuts or are looking to make some extra cash. At a minimum, you should ask for an approximate cost or agree to a fixed price before getting in the taxi.

Security & Safety

Sleeping in any airport can include a certain level of risk, especially when travelling alone. It’s important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety and the security of your valuables. Here are a few tips:

  • Safety First. It’s a good idea to know where the security office is located and look for video cameras where you plan to sleep. You can also ask the security personnel for advice on the safest places to spend the night.
  • Don’t Seclude Yourself. If you’re travelling alone, we recommend you stay near other travellers or close to security. This will help you feel more secure and deter potential thieves.
  • Hide Your Valuables. It’s also important to hide your valuables. Don’t leave them out in plain view, as this could make you a target for theft. Additionally, if you are a deep sleeper, you may want to padlock your bag to something or sleep with your bag up against a wall to make it harder for someone to access zippers and pockets. We have received reports of sleepers who woke up without their phones and laptop bags. The travellers were left with just their headphones and laptop bag strap.
  • Stay Alert. It’s best to stay alert and awake if you feel unsafe or uncomfortable. Drink coffee or other caffeinated beverages to help you stay awake, and remember that you can always catch up on sleep during your flight. These simple precautions can help you enjoy a safe night at the airport.

Last updated: 2026-02-26

This guide is for planning purposes only. Details, including rates and hours, may change without notice. Information comes from airports and service providers, their websites, and traveller submissions. We do not represent these providers. To share corrections or updates: write a review or update the airport guide.

Airport at a Glance

Sleepability:

9 Reviews
Challenging