The federal government is considering building a new Islamabad Convention, Expo and Exhibition Centre near the Bhara Kahu bypass as part of preparations for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit scheduled for 2027.
Sources said the government and the Capital Development Authority (CDA) are reviewing a site near Malpur, close to the starting point of the Bhara Kahu bypass. The CDA already owns land in the area, which officials consider suitable because of its proximity to the Diplomatic Enclave.
While authorities are also reviewing an alternative location, officials said the Malpur site remains the leading option. A senior CDA official confirmed that the agency’s Development Working Party has approved the project’s PC I at an estimated cost of Rs. 19.3 billion.
The plan sets an 18 month construction timeline once work begins. According to CDA documents, the proposed facility will function as a modern venue for national and international conventions, exhibitions, trade fairs, and cultural events.
The centre is also expected to host the SCO summit in Islamabad. The CDA said the project aligns with the Islamabad Master Plan and aims to generate long term revenue through event hosting, rentals, and tourism related activity.
Officials also cited the limited capacity of the existing Jinnah Convention Centre as a key reason for developing a new facility.
