One Homes, a prominent British real estate company with a development portfolio worth over $435 million in Pakistan, is set to tackle the country’s pressing student housing crisis.
The firm’s analyst estimates the sector’s value to exceed $30 billion annually, representing a significant opportunity for investment and development.
In a move to address this gap, One Homes has secured a prime location in Lahore’s higher education district to create Pakistan’s first dedicated student community. The site, positioned at the core of the city’s university district, boasts proximity to more than a dozen academic institutions and a robust student population.
The project’s initial phase will focus on providing secure, purpose-built housing for female students, a demographic disproportionately impacted by inadequate housing options. Future phases will expand access to additional groups, creating a comprehensive solution for the nation’s youth.
“This development represents far more than just bricks and mortar,” said Aqib Hassan, the chief commercial officer (CCO) of One Homes. “It’s about creating opportunities and empowering the next generation. By investing in the leaders of tomorrow—especially young women—we’re building a future that matches Pakistan’s vast potential.”
Urbanisation in Pakistan is accelerating annually, further driving demand for modern housing solutions as university enrollments and internal migration grow. With many of urban residents aged between 18 and 30 lacking secure, high-quality housing, this project offers a scalable model to address both immediate needs and long-term growth.
While women now comprise over half of university enrollments in Pakistan’s urban centres, many face barriers such as limited mobility and safety concerns, preventing them from fully accessing top-tier education and career opportunities.
Hassan added, “We are committed to bringing in the world’s leading consultants and architects, ensuring this development aligns with global standards and exceeds expectations. Student accommodation has become a preferred investment for institutional investors seeking stable, income-generating assets. This project is the first step toward building a nationwide, institutional-grade portfolio in key academic hubs.”
One Homes, part of One Group, is one of Pakistan’s largest foreign investors in real estate. With flagship projects such as One Canal Road in Lahore and Amaya Residences in Islamabad, the company is known for collaborating with international design experts to deliver exceptional developments.
The company was founded by Zeeshaan Shah, a visionary entrepreneur dedicated to raising standards and creating impactful investment opportunities.
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