ABAD Proposes Mass Rebuild to Avert Karachi’s Building Crisis
CategoriesNews

ABAD Proposes Mass Rebuild to Avert Karachi’s Building Crisis

After Lyari Collapse Claims 27 Lives, ABAD Offers to Reconstruct Hundreds of Unsafe Buildings Across Karachi

Karachi, In a bold initiative to address Karachi’s growing urban safety crisis, the Association of Builders and Developers (ABAD) has offered to rebuild hundreds of structurally unsafe buildings across the city within 700 days, pending formal government approval.

Speaking at a press conference at ABAD House, Chairman Mohammad Hassan Bakhshi emphasized the urgent need for action following the tragic Lyari building collapse, which has reignited concerns over aging and unauthorized constructions. Joined by senior officials, Bakhshi revealed that around 700 buildings have been deemed hazardous and need immediate intervention.

ABAD proposed collaborating with technical bodies like NESPAK or NDMA to conduct a city-wide structural survey, with a focus on high-risk areas such as Lyari, Liaquatabad, and Delhi Colony.

The association has also offered to develop up to 100,000 affordable housing units in Karachi, modeled after Punjab’s recent housing scheme, if provided with institutional support.

Calling for transparency and regulatory reform, ABAD urged the inclusion of private sector voices in official inquiries and emphasized the need for accountability from both builders and regulators.

This landmark proposal places ABAD at the forefront of Karachi’s urban renewal efforts, signaling a rare and urgent opportunity for coordinated public-private action.

Towers in Islamabad
CategoriesTowers

Towers in Islamabad: A Comprehensive Guide

Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan, is rapidly becoming known for its striking architectural skyline filled with impressive towers. This comprehensive guide explores corporate towers, residential towers, diplomatic towers, mixed-use towers in Islamabad, and current trends shaping this architectural evolution. We’ll dive into details about each type, listing key towers, their heights, and the number of floors they feature.

Types of Towers in Islamabad

There are 4 different types of towers in Islamabad which are as follows

  • Corporate Towers

Designed primarily for business use, these towers house offices of various national and international corporations, equipped with modern amenities to facilitate commercial activities.

  • Residential Towers

These towers provide luxurious and comfortable living spaces, featuring amenities designed for enhanced urban living, including scenic views and premium facilities.

  • Diplomatic Towers

These specialized towers are dedicated to housing embassies, consulates, and governmental offices, emphasizing security, exclusive access, and diplomatic functions.

  • Mixed-Use Towers

These towers integrate residential, commercial, and retail spaces into a single structure, offering a convenient and comprehensive urban experience.

 

List of High-Rise Towers In Islamabad

 

Name Height Floors Operational
Telecom Tower 113 m (371 ft) 24 Yes
Centaurus Corporate Tower 110 m (361 ft) 26 Yes
Centaurus Residential Tower 1 110 m (361 ft) 26 Yes
Centaurus Residential Tower 2 110 m (361 ft) 26 Yes
Saudi Pak Tower 72 m 19 Yes
One Constitution Avenue Tower 1 105.5 m (346 ft) 26 Yes
One Constitution Avenue Tower 2 105.5 m (346 ft) 26 Yes
Islamabad Stock Exchange Towers 76 m (249 ft) 19 Yes
Habib Bank Tower 78.88 m (259 ft) 19 Yes
Lignum Tower 83.03 m (272 ft) 20 Yes
Ufone Tower 113 m (371 ft) 28 Yes
Le Meridien Hotel 71 m (233 ft) 17 Yes
UBL Building 66.5 m (218 ft) 16 Yes
Shaheed-e-Millat Secretariat 66.5 m (218 ft) 16 Yes
Oil & Gas Development Co. (OGDCL) 16 Yes
Khudadad Heights 16 Yes
Green Trust Tower 16 Yes
NIC Building 15 Yes
Zarai Taraqiati Bank HQ 11 Yes
Pinnacle Tower 12 Yes
Movenpick Hotel 182.7 m 36 Yes
Grand Hyatt Hotel 166 m 40 No
Goldcrest Views 150 m 39 No
Karakorum Gulberg Greens 130 m 30 Yes
The Sixth Boulevard, Mall & Apartment 27 No
The Nexus Mall 26 Yes
Citadel 7 by Chakor Ventures 100m 20 No
Avari Hotel 28 Yes
Emirates Mall & Residency 22 No
Goldcrest Highlife 26 No
AAA Octa Business District 25 No
Defence Tower 25 Yes
Opal Mall & Luxury Suites 247 ft 21+2 No
BF Tower 110 m 22 No
Mall Of Islamabad 100 m 24+2 (26) Yes
Cloud Tower 1 27 No
World Trade Center (Platinum Square) 91+ m 28+ No
Elysium Tower 16 No
Safa Burj Mall 23 No
Defence Executive Apartments 18+ No
Pakland Tower 2 62 m 15 No
Sparco Tower 13 No
Grand Orchard 17 No
Goldcrest Commercial 9 No

 

Corporate Towers in Islamabad

Corporate towers in Islamabad highlight the city’s robust commercial growth, hosting offices of national and international corporations.

Notable Corporate Towers

 

Name Height Floors
Citadel 7 100 meters 20
Telecom Tower 113 meters 24
Ufone Tower 113 meters 28
Centaurus Corporate Tower 110 meters 26
Islamabad Stock Exchange Towers 76 meters 19
Habib Bank Tower 78.88 meters 19

Citadel 7: Redefining Corporate Space in Islamabad

Among the newest additions to Islamabad’s high-rise skyline, Citadel 7 by Chakor Ventures is quickly becoming a reference point for innovation, transparency, and investor confidence. 

Located on Jinnah Avenue, Blue Area, right across from Centaurus Mall and near key city landmarks, Citadel 7 offers modern office and retail spaces designed for prestige, convenience, and growth.

Citadel 7- best corporate tower in islamabad

This 20-floor, CDA-approved project features 14 floors of premium corporate offices and 5 floors dedicated to a modern mall and food court, supported by four levels of basement parking. 

Citadel 7 corporate tower isn’t just notable for its scale, but also for the way it is transforming expectations and standards in Pakistan’s commercial real estate sector. In fact, it is the country’s first high-rise project to display a live possession countdown on-site, building trust and offering full transparency to investors and buyers.

Key Amenities and Features:

  • Premium address with easy access to all of Islamabad
  • Grade-A corporate office spaces and luxury retail options
  • Four levels of secure, reserved basement parking
  • Separate elevators system with live destination control
  • Fully integrated Building Management System (BMS)
  • 24/7 advanced surveillance and backup power
  • Dedicated entrances and exits for smooth traffic flow
  • Contemporary fire safety and building maintenance infrastructure
  • Lavishly designed lobbies and communal areas

Telecom Tower

Standing at 113 meters with 24 floors, Telecom Tower is one of Islamabad’s tallest office buildings. It is a hub for the telecom industry, housing various corporate offices and offering modern amenities and central accessibility.

telecom tower islamabad

Ufone Tower

Ufone Tower, also reaching 113 meters with 28 floors, is a signature telecom headquarters known for its striking glass façade and advanced infrastructure. It caters to leading telecom firms and is recognized for its prime location and impressive elevation.

Ufone Tower Islamabad

Centaurus Corporate Tower

Part of the iconic Centaurus complex, this 26-floor, 110-meter tower is a sought-after address for multinational and blue-chip companies. It combines world-class business facilities with the prestige and convenience of an integrated mixed-use environment.

Centaurus Tower

Islamabad Stock Exchange Towers

At 76 meters and 19 floors, this twin-tower complex has long been the financial heartbeat of the capital. It hosts a blend of financial institutions, trading floors, and support services, symbolizing Islamabad’s role as a growing economic center.

Islamabad stock exchange

Habib Bank Tower 

Habib Bank Tower stands 78.88 meters tall with 19 floors and is among the earliest high-rises in the city’s business district. It features modern office amenities and reflects both heritage and progress for one of Pakistan’s leading financial institutions.

Habib Bank Tower Islamabad

These corporate towers in Islamabad symbolize technological advancement and economic development, offering state-of-the-art amenities such as advanced security systems, high-speed elevators, and integrated digital infrastructure.

Residential Towers in Islamabad

Residential towers in Islamabad are redefining urban living, providing luxury residences paired with scenic views and premium amenities.

Prominent Residential Towers:

Name Height Floors
Centaurus Residential Towers 1 and 2 110 meters 26
One Constitution Avenue Towers 105.5 meters 26
Lignum Tower 83.03 meters 20
Goldcrest Views (Upcoming) 150 meters 39
Karakorum Gulberg Greens 130 meters 30

 

Centaurus Residential Towers 1 and 2

Located in the heart of Islamabad, these iconic towers offer luxurious apartments with access to shopping, dining, and entertainment within the Centaurus complex. Residents enjoy premium amenities, panoramic views, and a secure, vibrant community atmosphere.

Centaurus Mall

One Constitution Avenue Towers

These elegant twin towers are known for their prime location, spacious layouts, and stunning Margalla Hills views. The development provides upscale living with modern conveniences, 24/7 security, and proximity to the city’s diplomatic and commercial centers.

One Constitution Vaenue

Lignum Tower

Lignum Tower features contemporary apartments and penthouses designed for comfort and style. Residents benefit from top-tier facilities, including a fitness center, dedicated parking, and beautifully landscaped surroundings.

Lignum tower in Islamabad

Goldcrest Views (Upcoming)

Set to be one of Islamabad’s tallest residential towers, Goldcrest Views will offer high-end living spaces with state-of-the-art amenities. Its modern design and strategic location are expected to attract professionals and families seeking luxury and convenience.

Goldcrest views

Karakorum Gulberg Greens

This project promises elegant apartments and world-class facilities in the serene Gulberg Greens area. Residents will enjoy peaceful living close to nature while being just minutes from Islamabad’s main commercial hubs.

Karakorum gulberg greens

Diplomatic Towers in Islamabad

Diplomatic towers in Islamabad primarily accommodate embassies, consulates, and government offices, particularly within the Diplomatic Enclave.

Key Diplomatic Towers:

Name Height Floors
Shaheed-e-Millat Secretariat 66.5 meters 16
NIC Building 15
Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited HQ 11

Shaheed-e-Millat Secretariat 

A prominent government building, Shaheed-e-Millat Secretariat houses key federal offices and offers modern workspaces over 16 floors. Its strategic location and secure environment make it central to Islamabad’s administrative activities.

Shaheed e millat

NIC Building

The NIC Building serves as an important administrative tower with 15 floors dedicated to government and public sector offices. It is designed for efficiency, providing a professional environment for various national institutions.

NIC Tower

Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited Headquarters

This headquarters is home to one of Pakistan’s leading agricultural banks, featuring 11 floors of well-equipped office spaces. Its location and secure premises support critical banking operations and serve the financial needs of the agricultural sector.

ZTBL Tower in Islamabad

Mixed-Use Towers in Islamabad

Mixed-use towers combine residential, commercial, and retail spaces, serving diverse urban needs within single, integrated structures.

Significant Mixed-Use Towers

Name Height Floors
Giga Mall Tower 84 meters 30
Mall of Islamabad 100 meters 26
The Sixth Boulevard 27

Giga Mall Tower

Giga Mall Tower is a landmark development in Islamabad, offering a blend of shopping, dining, entertainment, and office spaces under one roof. Its central location and impressive architecture make it a favorite destination for families and businesses alike.

Mall of Islamabad

Located in a prime area, Mall of Islamabad combines luxury apartments, retail outlets, and corporate offices in a sophisticated setting. The tower is designed for convenience and style, providing easy access to amenities and major city attractions.

Mall of Islamabad

The Sixth Boulevard (Upcoming)

Set to become a key destination, The Sixth Boulevard will feature premium retail and residential options across 27 floors. Its modern design and strategic location are expected to attract both shoppers and residents seeking a vibrant urban experience.

Mixed-use towers in Islamabad cater to a modern urban lifestyle, providing a seamless blend of shopping, living, and working environments, significantly contributing to urban convenience and reduced commuting times.

Current Trends in Islamabad’s Tower Development

Several innovative trends characterize Islamabad’s rapidly developing towers, including:

Eco-Smart Towers

Eco-smart towers incorporate sustainable features such as solar power, rainwater harvesting, and energy-efficient systems. Notable examples include Cloud Tower 1 and Citadel 7 by Chakor Ventures.

Boutique Residential Towers

Smaller, exclusive residential towers offering privacy and personalized living experiences are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in upscale neighborhoods like F-11 and Gulberg Greens.

Technology-Oriented Towers

These towers are designed for tech companies and startups, offering automated systems, advanced connectivity, and coworking spaces that align with the technological aspirations of Islamabad’s growing tech sector.

Margalla-Facing High-Rises

Residential towers with views of the Margalla Hills, such as the One Constitution Avenue Towers, are increasingly in demand for their unique combination of natural beauty and urban convenience.

Vertical Retail Spaces

Vertical retail complexes like the Emirates Mall & Residency integrate shopping, dining, and entertainment vertically, enhancing urban living convenience.

Future of Towers in Islamabad

The trajectory of tower development in Islamabad suggests further expansion in sustainable, technologically advanced, and vertically integrated living and working spaces. Developers are increasingly focusing on mixed-use developments and affordable residential towers, catering to a broader demographic and ensuring inclusivity in urban living solutions.

Conclusion

Towers in Islamabad—including corporate, residential, diplomatic, and mixed-use structures—represent the city’s dynamic urban growth and commitment to advanced, sustainable architecture. As the city continues its upward trajectory, these towers will undoubtedly set new benchmarks for urban development across Pakistan, combining innovation, luxury, and functionality into a coherent urban vision.

Chakor Signs Contract With OTIS for Installation of Premium Elevator systems at Citadel 7
CategoriesCitadel 7 Featured blog

Chakor Ventures Signs Strategic Contract with OTIS & Greaves to Install High-Speed Vertical Elevators

In a significant step toward reshaping Pakistan’s skyline, Chakor Ventures has signed a contract with Greaves, the sole distributor of Otis elevator system in Pakistan, to integrate world-class vertical mobility solutions into its flagship real estate development project,  Citadel 7. This partnership marks a transformative milestone in Chakor Ventures’ ongoing commitment to building futuristic infrastructure that blends innovation, safety, and modern living.

Chakor Ventures hosted a strategic contract-signing ceremony at its Islamabad office on July 9, 2025, welcoming senior representatives from Otis and Greaves. In attendance were Mr. Omer Khitab, General Manager at Chakor Ventures; Mr. Irfan A. Shah, Senior General Manager at Greaves; and Mr. Hafiz Asif Nazir, General Manager at Greaves. Together, they reaffirmed a shared commitment to installing state-of-the-art vertical elevator systems in Citadel 7, setting a new industry benchmark for innovative, high-performance mobility in Pakistan’s real estate sector.

With over 160 years of experience, Otis Elevator Company is a global leader, renowned for its engineering excellence in elevators, escalators, and moving walkways, backed by strict international safety standards ( otisinvestors.com). In Pakistan, Greaves serves as Otis’s trusted distributor, bringing technical expertise and local support to every project.

OTIS X Chakor Signing

To understand Otis’s global reputation, look no further than Dubai:

One Za’abeel: A mixed-use twin-tower where Otis installed 82 units, including SkyRise single and double decks, Gen2 elevators, and the Compass® 360 destination-management system for faster, smarter traffic flow (otis.com).

Sobha Creek Vista Heights: In MBR City, Otis equipped two 63-story towers with 22 SkyRise elevators, also featuring Compass® 360 and EMS Panorama 2.0 monitoring for efficient operations (elevatorworld.com).

Various Sobha Realty Projects: A massive deployment of 303 Otis elevators, including Gen2 and SkyRise models, across five luxury developments (elevatorworld.com).

Key Otis features that transform vertical transportation include

  • Compass® 360 Destination Dispatch uses smart destination control to direct passengers to the most efficient elevator, significantly reducing wait and travel times while enhancing traffic flow in high-rise buildings.
  • High-speed SkyRise® elevators are designed for high-rise environments.
  • Gen2® machine-room-less systems for compact, energy-efficient rides
  • Real-time EMS elevator monitoring to ensure reliability and proactive maintenance

 

At the Contract  signing ceremony, Mr. Omer Khitab, General Manager of Chakor Ventures, stated:

“After extensive research and evaluating all major brands, we found OTIS to be the most suitable choice for Citadel 7. We also secured several customized features, including bespoke interiors, a destination control system to optimize vertical commute, and firefighting elevators for enhanced safety.”

To ensure the premium standard of the project, Mr. Muhammad Abbas Khan, CEO of Chakor Ventures , personally visited the OTIS manufacturing facility.

Contract signing in presence of CEO of Chakor Venture

Mr. Irfan A. Shah, General Manager of OTIS, remarked during the ceremony:

“OTIS elevators are trusted in ten of the world’s most iconic buildings, including the Burj Khalifa and the Eiffel Tower. We’re proud to bring that same global excellence to Citadel 7.”

For end users, this means faster, safer, and smarter elevator journeys. For investors and tenants, it enhances trust, operational excellence, and long-term value. With this high-impact collaboration, Chakor Ventures, Otis, and Greaves are redefining Pakistan’s commercial tower standards, raising the bar for smart development.

CDA Directs Swift Action on Islamabad Sector Development
CategoriesNews

CDA Directs Swift Action on Islamabad Sector Development

On-site offices and a crackdown on encroachments aim to expedite infrastructure delivery and enhance public trust in the development process.

The Chairman of the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Chief Commissioner of Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, has issued firm directives to accelerate infrastructure development across Islamabad’s residential sectors. In a high-level meeting at CDA headquarters on July 9, 2025, he emphasized the need to proceed with on-the-ground work promptly while maintaining high standards of quality and transparency. (zameen.com).

To enhance responsiveness, Randhawa announced that on-site offices will be established for the Deputy Commissioner, CDA, and other key officials in sectors currently under development. These local hubs will serve as direct points of contact for residents to address land grievances, submit documentation, and access vital information (zameen.com).

A significant focus of the meeting was addressing illegal encroachments in sectors H-16, C-15, C-16, E-12, and F-13. The CDA chief ordered a decisive crackdown on unauthorized constructions, urging residents with legitimate claims to register their properties promptly at these on-site offices (zameen.com).

Senior officials, including representatives from the Administration, Estate, Engineering, Finance, and Environment wings, DG Works, and Deputy Commissioners of Islamabad and CDA, attended the session. Chairman Randhawa reiterated that all bureaucratic and logistical hurdles delaying progress must be removed without delay (zameen.com).

With this directive-driven approach, CDA aims to transform Islamabad’s development model, making it faster, more transparent, and truly citizen-focused.

CDA Hikes Property Transfer Fees in Islamabad
CategoriesNews

CDA Triples Property Transfer Fee in Islamabad: Real Estate Sector Braces for Impact

The revised fee structure raises concerns among buyers, investors, and realtors as the 3% rate sparks calls for protest and policy review.

Islamabad’s Capital Development Authority (CDA) has implemented a significant hike in property transfer fees, raising the charge from 1% to 3% of the property’s FBR-assessed value, effective July 1, 2025 (dawn.com). This sharp increase follows closely on the heels of a federal budget move that removed a 4% stamp duty and 1% registration fee on property transactions, affecting federal and rural jurisdiction properties (dawn.com).

While the CDA maintains that its adjustment reflects current market valuations, real estate agents have raised concerns. The Islamabad Real Estate Agent Association has condemned the move, labeling it “regressive” and pledging a protest on July 22 unless the fee is reversed (dawn.com). According to CDA, the title deed charge remains at 0.5%, and transfers involving family or inheritance have a reduced rate of 0.75% (zameen.com).

This new fee regime, applied across all CDA-administered zones, including commercial and residential sectors, marks the second-largest commercial real estate transaction change in Pakistan by rupee value and the third-largest by dollar value of its kind. Analysts warn that the higher costs could slow property deals, while buyers face heavier financial burdens.

 Key Highlights

  • Effective from July 1, 2025
  • The transfer fee is now 3% vs. prior 1%
  • Title deed fees remain 0.5%; inheritance transfers are 0.75%
  • Real estate agents plan a protest on July 22

What’s Next?

Stay tuned as industry leaders and the CDA engage on revised property policies and the future of Islamabad’s real estate landscape. For the latest updates on our projects, partnerships, and real estate developments, visit Chakor Ventures today.

How Chakor Ventures Is Setting a New Standard of Authenticity in Real Estate
CategoriesFeatured blog

How Chakor Ventures Is Setting New Standards of Authenticity in Real Estate

When it comes to investing in real estate, especially in Pakistan’s commercial sector, there’s one word that every investor hopes for but rarely sees: authenticity. Too often, timelines slip, brochures promise more than they deliver, and transparency is lacking. But Chakor Ventures, a leading real estate developer, is changing the narrative. Chakor Ventures, with its groundbreaking flagship project, Citadel 7, is setting new standards of authenticity in real estate market of Pakistan.

Building Trust with a Live Countdown 

Most developers talk about possession timelines. Chakor Ventures decided to show it instead. For the first time in Pakistan, a public possession countdown timer has been installed directly at the Citadel 7 site. That’s not just a marketing tactic but a bold statement and a promise. Every day, the timer updates, counting down to the official handover. It’s visible to everyone: visitors, investors, and passersby. That level of transparency is unprecedented in Pakistan’s real estate market, particularly for a commercial tower of this scale.

It’s the kind of move that says, “We don’t just promise. We deliver.”

Defining new standards of authenticity in real estate

A Modern Vertical Corporate Tower in Islamabad Redefining Commercial Spaces

Citadel 7 isn’t just another office building. It’s a high-rise vertical corporate tower that presents innovative technology, high-speed construction, premium design, AI-enabled amenities, and future-proof resilient infrastructure in the capital’s most sought-after business district.

Here’s what makes it exceptional:

  • 20 floors of high-end commercial and corporate spaces
  • 4 basement levels for ample parking
  • 5 floors of retail mall and food courts
  • A prime location opposite Centaurus and PIMS Hospital
  • Approved by the Capital Development Authority (CDA)
  • Projected rental returns of 15–17% in the next few years

In short, it’s designed to be the most modern commercial tower in the country, and it’s being built with full public accountability.

Real Estate That’s Backed by Progress

Chakor Ventures isn’t just offering spaces; they’re offering confidence. Every construction milestone at Citadel 7 is tracked, recorded, and aligned with the public countdown. Investors don’t have to rely on word of mouth or filtered progress updates. They can visit the site or the official website and see real-time progress. That’s how a real estate developer builds loyalty in 2025. And that’s why market perception around Blue Area investments is stronger than ever. In fact, during the last Blue Area auction, commercial plot prices surged by over 30%. Projects like Citadel 7 are a key reason why.

Chakor Ventures - Corporate Tower in Islamabad

Investors’ Confidence Starts with Transparency

In a real estate environment often clouded by uncertainty, Citadel 7 is a breath of fresh air. It proves that modern infrastructure, thoughtful planning, and honest communication can coexist. For investors, it’s not just about owning a space; it’s about owning a part of something trustworthy and future-proof. It’s where investment meets integrity; every step is visible, every promise backed by progress.

Chakor Ventures Leads with Authenticity and Trust

Citadel 7 by Chakor Ventures is Pakistan’s first commercial tower to display a live countdown to possession, proving progress every day in the heart of Islamabad’s prime Blue Area. This vertical corporate tower is setting a new benchmark for transparency, innovation, and investor trust.  Learn more about how Citadel 7 is redefining real estate authenticity, where authenticity is visible and trust is earned.

FAQs

1. What makes Citadel 7 different from other commercial towers?

Citadel 7 is Pakistan’s first vertical corporate tower to display a public countdown timer, offering unmatched transparency and real-time progress tracking.

2. Where is Citadel 7 located?

It’s strategically placed in Blue Area, Islamabad, directly opposite Centaurus Mall and PIMS Hospital, making it a prime spot for both business and retail.

3. What kind of returns can investors expect?

Citadel 7 is projected to offer rental returns of 15–17%, along with strong appreciation due to its prime commercial location and high construction quality.

4. How can I follow the construction progress?

You can visit the project site or check live updates on chakorventures.com/citadel7, where the countdown timer and milestone updates are shared regularly.

K‑P Enacts Finance Act 2025 to Strengthen Relief and Compliance
CategoriesNews

K‑P Enacts Finance Act 2025 to Strengthen Relief and Compliance

New measures reduce taxes for homeowners, professionals, and eco-conscious citizens, aiming for a fairer and more efficient fiscal system.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has officially signed the Finance Act 2025, which came into force on July 1, 2025, aiming to ease the tax burden on low-income individuals while expanding the province’s revenue base (tribune.com.pk).

Key highlights include:

  • Property tax is waived for houses under five marlas, extending exemptions up to 4.9 marlas.
  • Abolished professional tax for individuals earning up to Rs 36,000/month, a significant relief for middle-income earners.
  • Stamp duty was halved from 2% to 1% on allotment and transfer of residential and commercial properties, streamlining real estate transactions.
  • Mandatory vehicle registration before permit issuance to improve transport regulation.
  • Extension of EV tax exemptions until June 30, 2028, to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles.
  • The hotel bed tax was reduced from 10% to 7%, and the professional tax for doctors and tailors was also lowered.
  • New penalties for rickshaw violations and more onerous clauses for fake or forged driving licenses.

However, five- to 15-marla homes in divisional and district headquarters are now subject to revised nominal property taxes, ranging from Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,500 annually (tribune.com.pk).

Provincial authorities stress that no new taxes have been imposed in the former FATA or PATA areas, clarifying that the law strikes a balance between taxpayer relief and revenue expansion.

As the province embarks on this new fiscal journey, the Finance Act 2025 signals an economic shift, offering targeted relief, promoting compliance, and supporting sustainable growth.

Bank Makramah
CategoriesNews

Bank Makramah Closes Rs12 Billion Headquarters Deal in Karachi

One of Pakistan’s largest commercial real estate transactions signals a strategic shift and capital strengthening, ranking as the second-largest by rupee value and the third-largest by dollar value.

Bank Makramah Limited (BML) has announced the sale of its iconic Cullinan Tower in Clifton, Karachi, for Rs 12 billion, marking a significant milestone in its financial strategy (brecorder.com). The decision follows a directive from BML’s Board of Directors as part of an aggressive recapitalization plan aimed at strengthening its balance sheet and supporting future growth initiatives.

The Rs 12 billion proceeds from the headquarters sale will add substantial liquidity and capital gains, fueling ongoing efforts to enhance BML’s net asset base by approximately Rs 50 billion in conjunction with other financial measures (brecorder.com). These measures include a fresh PKR 5 billion capital injection from sponsor Nasser Abdulla Hussain Lootah—adding to a prior Rs 10 billion infusion in 2023, as well as a pending merger with Global Haly Development Limited (brecorder.com).

Additionally, BML is close to recovering over Rs 13 billion in legacy non-performing loans, which will further support its profitability and recapitalization targets (brecorder.com).

As BML positions itself for sustainable growth and excellence, the strategic asset sale sends a strong confidence signal to shareholders and investors. The transaction underscores the bank’s commitment to financial resilience and positions it well for future growth and expansion.

Cita del 7 possession countdown
CategoriesCitadel 7

Citadel 7, Pakistan’s 1st Real Estate Project with Live Possession Countdown

History in the Making: Citadel 7 Becomes Pakistan’s First Real Estate Project with a Live Possession Countdown

Islamabad, June 2025 – A historic moment has unfolded in Pakistan’s real estate landscape as Chakor Ventures breaks new ground with the official launch of a live possession countdown timer at the site of its flagship project, Citadel 7, a smart tech commercial tower located in the prestigious Blue Area of Islamabad. For the first time in Pakistan, a real estate developer is not only committing to a delivery date but is also showcasing it in real-time through a digital countdown, symbolizing transparency, accountability, and unwavering confidence in project completion.

Citadel 7: A Game-Changing Smart Tech Commercial Tower

On Saturday, June 21st, Chakor Ventures hosted an exclusive press release event on the project premises, drawing attention from investors, buyers, real estate professionals, and members of the media. The event marked a celebration of commitment, progress, and innovation in an industry that has long been criticized for delays and opacity.

At the heart of this celebration was Citadel 7, a modern, smart-tech commercial tower that redefines the standards of commercial real estate in Islamabad. With its advanced infrastructure, intelligent systems, and future-forward amenities, Citadel 7 offers a future-proof investment opportunity in one of the city’s most valuable and visible zones, Blue Area.

Cita del 7- corporate tower countdown event

The Countdown: A Promise in Every Second

What sets Citadel 7 apart is not just the technology or location, but the bold public possession countdown timer now installed on-site. Displaying the exact number of days, hours, and seconds left until possession, this timer is more than just a display; it’s a pledge of delivery.

Speaking at the event, Khurram Malik, Director at Chakor Ventures, stated:

“We are the first in Pakistan to implement this concept. We’re confident that when the timer hits zero, possession will be handed over exactly as promised, to the very people who began their journey with us.”

His words reflect the bold confidence that Chakor Ventures brings to the market, a stark contrast to the often uncertain timelines of traditional property development in Pakistan.

A Statement Beyond Structure

Jawad Amin, Director of Sales, emphasized that Citadel 7 is more than a commercial project:

“Citadel 7 is not just a building, it’s a statement, a legacy. It represents our commitment not only to our clients but to the entire real estate industry. It’s a new standard of what’s possible.”

This sentiment resonated strongly with attendees, especially investors and buyers who view timely delivery as one of the biggest hurdles in commercial real estate projects.

Precision That Impacts the Industry

Omer Khitab, General Manager at Chakor Ventures, added a powerful perspective on the impact of this initiative:

“We’re counting every second and watching every detail, because it’s the little differences that make a big impact. That’s the difference we want to bring to the real estate industry in Pakistan.”

This attention to detail reinforces Chakor Ventures’ positioning as an innovative and trustworthy developer that is reshaping market expectations.

Investor Confidence at an All-Time High

With 80% of Citadel 7 units already booked, the response from buyers has been overwhelmingly positive. The countdown adds a layer of excitement and credibility, giving investors real-time assurance of progress and timely delivery.

In a sector plagued by delays, this step is being widely hailed as a bold and revolutionary move. It is expected to not only boost investor trust in Chakor Ventures but also challenge other developers to adopt similar transparency measures.

The Clock Is Ticking Fast; Secure Your Space at Citadel 7

The live countdown at Citadel 7 is more than just a timer; it’s a bold promise that real estate in Pakistan is changing for the better. Chakor Ventures is setting a new standard by staying true to its word and demonstrating progress in real-time. As each second passes, the future draws closer for those who believed in the project from the start. Want to see it for yourself? Explore Citadel 7 here and be part of a real estate journey built on trust, time, and transparency.

FAQs 

Citadel 7 by Chakor Ventures is Pakistan’s first commercial project to feature a live possession countdown timer, symbolizing on-time delivery, innovation, and trust in the real estate sector.
Citadel 7 is strategically located in the heart of Blue Area, Islamabad, and is nearest to two primary entrances: Jinnah Avenue and Ibn-e-Sina Road. Positioned in one of Pakistan’s most prestigious business zones, it offers premium smart-tech commercial spaces with unmatched visibility and accessibility.
Citadel 7 is the flagship project of Chakor Ventures, a progressive real estate company known for innovation, transparency, and commitment to timely delivery in Pakistan’s property market.
According to Chakor Ventures' live countdown, possession will be handed over when the timer hits zero, a clear, time-bound commitment celebrated by buyers and industry professionals alike.