Jinnah Square Downtown, Islamabad’s next urban landmark unveiled

Dubai: Pakistan's capital city Islamabad is all set to get its new downtown expecting billions of dollars in investment.

Islamabad’s Capital Development Authority (CDA) unveils plans for Jinnah Square Downtown, a massive residential and commercial district stretching from the One Constitution building to near the Bhara Kahu Bypass. Strategically located between the Rawal Dam and Margalla Hills along Srinagar Highway and Murree Road, the project is envisioned as Islamabad’s next iconic business and lifestyle hub.

Global city models

Inspired by global city models and rooted in local geography, the new district will include designated plots for hotels, high-rise apartments, a modern hospital, commercial spaces, and ample recreational areas. In keeping with Islamabad’s reputation as one of the greenest capitals in the world, 60% of the area will be preserved for parks, green belts, and roads, while 40% will be developed for infrastructure.

Massive investment potential

The location, nestled between some of the capital’s most scenic landmarks, makes the site highly attractive to investors. CDA officials estimate that the development could generate trillions of rupees in revenue over the next 20 years, significantly boosting the city’s economy and real estate value.

Officials confirmed that the project will soon be tabled for formal approval by the CDA Board, after which it will be presented to the federal cabinet through the Ministry of Interior.

Downtown blueprint

The concept for Jinnah Square Downtown was proposed by CDA Chairman Mohammad Ali Randhawa during site visits to the Serena Interchange and the under-construction Murree Road underpass. Observing large, underutilised plots of CDA land, he directed the planning teams to explore high-impact uses for the area — leading to the creation of the downtown blueprint.

“This will be a new Blue Area for Islamabad, but with the added advantage of integrated living, green planning, and world-class infrastructure,” said a CDA official.

International expertise

Pending final approvals, CDA plans to engage international urban planning consultants to ensure the project aligns with global standards for sustainable, liveable cities. The design will emphasise accessibility, eco-friendly construction, and resilience against urban sprawl.

To prepare for the district’s future traffic and mobility needs, the CDA is already upgrading critical infrastructure. The Murree Road Underpass, connecting directly to Srinagar Highway, is on track for completion by end of May 2025. This will ease traffic for commuters from Murree and Bhara Kahu while linking the new downtown area to the rest of the city.

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, during a recent inspection, praised the pace of work and called for its timely completion, noting that “all available resources should be used to ensure the underpass opens as scheduled.”

He also announced plans to make the corridor from Jinnah Square to Faizabad a “model road” complete with landscaping, decorative lighting, and wider carriageways. Additionally, Margalla Road will be made signal-free in phases, reducing traffic pressure.