Pakistan unveils first national housing policy in nearly 25 years

The Ministry of Housing and Works has rolled out the National Housing Policy 2025, described as the first full revision of the national framework in close to a quarter century. Officials are aiming to close a shortfall the government puts at roughly 13 million homes, a gap it says keeps widening. The launch took place in Islamabad, on October 5, together with UN-Habitat Pakistan, and was timed with World Habitat Day 2026.

The updated framework concentrates on producing more affordable homes, strengthening security of land rights, widening loans for buying property and regularising unplanned neighbourhoods. Looking ahead, the government says execution will emphasise broader affordable access, better coordination between institutions, and climate-resilient, sustainable settlements. Rs65 billion has so far reached first-time buyers across Pakistan through the Apna Ghar programme and Ghar Ho To Apna, the ministry stated.

Buyers can receive financing support of up to 90% toward home purchases, according to details presented at the launch. The policy gives weight to dwellings and fundamental utilities, while development partners are described as central to delivery. The event took place at the National University of Sciences and Technology, marking World Habitat Day under the theme Adequate Housing for All.