ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) is preparing to expand Islamabad’s hotel capacity ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit 2027, with a target of arranging around 4,000 high-standard hotel rooms for international delegates and guests.
The authority plans to hold a conference with hotel owners and investors to discuss ways to increase the city’s accommodation capacity. A survey of existing hotels is also underway to identify rooms that can meet the requirements of international visitors.
Hotel Capacity to Be Increased
Islamabad currently has more than 4,000 hotel rooms, but around 1,000 are reportedly below the required international standards.
To address the potential shortage, the CDA plans to encourage existing hotel operators to increase room capacity while supporting new hotel developments. Several hotels currently under construction are also expected to become operational in 2027.
CDA Chairman Sohail Ashraf has acknowledged the challenge of meeting the target but said the required accommodation arrangements would be made for the summit.
The authority is also considering government facilities as alternative accommodation for international delegates if additional capacity is required.
Islamabad Preparing for Major Events
The demand for quality hotel rooms is expected to increase as Islamabad prepares to host several major international events in 2027, including the SCO Summit, South Asian Games and an International Olympic Committee meeting.
The expected influx of international visitors could also create opportunities for the city’s hospitality, transport and tourism sectors.
New Convention Centre Planned
Preparations are also progressing for the New Islamabad Convention, Exhibition and Expo Centre (NICEEC) near Malpur, which is planned as the main venue for the SCO Summit.
A joint venture led by China Construction Third Engineering Bureau submitted the lowest bid of PKR 37 billion for the project. The bid and revised design will undergo consultant review before construction proceeds.
The CDA expects construction to take around one year once work begins.
With hotel expansion and new event infrastructure planned, Islamabad is preparing to strengthen its hospitality capacity ahead of increased international activity in 2027.
