Pakistan’s Rs173bn REIT sector seeks tax relief, stronger governance

Pakistan’s REIT industry, with Rs173.1 billion in aggregate funds, needs improved governance and tax rules to expand its role in the property market, speakers said at an SECP session on October 27, according to Mettis Global. They said regulated REITs could bring property activity into formal channels and direct investment towards capital markets and infrastructure.

The session cited 29 registered REIT schemes as of March 2026. Arif Habib Dolmen REIT Management chief executive Muhammad Ejaz identified Dolmen City REIT and Globe Residency REIT as local examples, reporting Dolmen City REIT’s market capitalization at Rs86.88 billion on September 30, 2026, and occupancy above 97% at both properties. Speakers called for a review of property transfer taxes and investment limits, while stressing that returns and liquidity are not assured and depend on assets, scheme design and market conditions.