Over the last decade, dozens of new housing societies have launched around the twin cities. Yet DHA Islamabad remains a leading choice for homeowners and investors — both in Pakistan and among overseas Pakistanis.
This article looks at the reasons behind that standing: its legal foundation, location, phased development, amenities and community feel.
A clear legal foundation
DHA Islamabad is a project of the Defence Housing Authority. It is approved under a special Presidential Ordinance of 2005, and the DHA Islamabad Act 2013 was passed by the National Assembly of Pakistan. As a housing authority in its own right, DHA can provide housing after legally acquiring land, so projects under DHA Islamabad are considered pre-approved.
DHA began as a project of the Pakistan Armed Forces Welfare Trust before becoming a choice for the wider public.
Location
DHA Islamabad sits at the junction of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, on the eastern side of the city. Most phases fall under Islamabad Zone 5 and Rawalpindi. Neighbouring developments include Bahria Town, Askari Housing, Zara Housing Society, Naval Anchorage, Emaar Canyon Views and River Garden.
| Destination | Time |
|---|---|
| Bahria Paradise Commercial, Rawalpindi | 10 min |
| Chaklala Air Base | 25 min |
| Zero Point Interchange | 30 min |
| Gulberg Greens | 30 min |
| Islamabad International Airport | 45 min |
Phases at a glance
| Phase | Key facts (as stated) |
|---|---|
| Phase I | On GT Road near Fauji Foundation Hospital; about 1,100 Kanals; 4,971 residential and commercial units; fully developed |
| Phase II | Between GT Road and Islamabad Highway; about 15,075 Kanals; the most commercially active phase, home to Central Park and Giga Mall |
| Phase III | Under development; plan includes a golf course, theme park and a completed lake; about 1,050 Kanals developed |
| Phase IV | Semi-hilly terrain along the Soan River; over 4,000 Kanals; launched 2015; access from Phase I or Adyala Road |
| Phase V | About 7,000 Kanals on Islamabad Expressway, opposite Phase II; over 150 families living there |
| Phase VI | Near T-Chowk Rawat; about 55,000 Kanals including the Overseas Sector and DHA Valley; master plan by OJRM |
| DHA Valley | Launched 18 August 2008; adjacent to the Phase II Extension on Islamabad Highway |
Amenities
- Gated community with 24/7 security and a boundary wall
- Water, gas and electricity, with underground electrification
- Grand mosque
- Hospitals, dispensaries and clinics
- Education complexes and schools, including APS and the DHA Education System
- Water reservoirs and sewerage and waste-disposal systems
- Sports complex with indoor and outdoor facilities
Community and lifestyle
Much of DHA Islamabad's appeal is its settled community feel. Central Park in Phase II is a focal point, with restaurants, a skating rink, a bird park, a pool and a walking track, and well-known chains such as McDonald's, KFC, Second Cup and Gloria Jean's. Some phases also offer semi-mountainous landscapes.
Demand and how plots are bought
Sustained demand from twin-city residents has kept development moving in Phases III, IV and V. Most plots and villas are now bought on cash payment through resale. At the time of capture, bookings were open for residential plots in Sectors J and K of Phase V.
When taking possession, members apply to the Building Control Department (BCD) for a statement of dues, pay the possession fee, and submit documents including the allotment certificate, CNIC copy, affidavit and post-dated cheques. BCD then arranges on-ground possession and issues the possession letter.
This article is for general information only and is not financial or legal advice. Prices, approvals and project details change — verify with the developer and relevant authority before making any payment.
- DHA Islamabad
- DHA Valley
- Rawalpindi
- Islamabad
- Phases
