One Homes, a British real estate group with $435 million in projects under development in Pakistan, is addressing the country’s urgent need for student housing through impact-driven investment.
Addressing Pakistan’s Student Housing Crisis
With over 22.6 million higher education students, Pakistan faces a significant shortage of modern, secure accommodation. The market for Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA), currently nonexistent in the country, is estimated to be worth over $30 billion annually.
Lahore’s First Purpose-Built Student Community
One Homes has acquired a prime location in Lahore’s higher education district to develop Pakistan’s first purpose-built student community. The site is surrounded by over a dozen universities, catering to approximately 100,000 students, making it an ideal hub to meet the growing demand.
Phase One: Prioritizing Female Students
The project’s initial phase will focus on housing for female students, addressing challenges such as safety and accessibility that disproportionately impact women. Future phases will expand to include all demographics, offering an inclusive and scalable housing solution.
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Empowering Youth Through Investment
“This isn’t just about building properties; it’s about building opportunities,” said Aqib Hassan, Chief Commercial Officer of One Homes. “Investing in education and youth empowerment is one of the most meaningful ways to drive long-term impact. By supporting students, especially women, we’re directly investing in the future leaders of Pakistan.”
Why the Need is Urgent
- Urban Growth: Pakistan’s urban population is growing at 3% annually, with university enrollments and migration trends fueling housing demand.
- Housing Gap: 64% of residents aged 18–30 lack access to modern accommodation, limiting their independence and opportunities.
- Female Enrollment: Women now make up over 50% of university enrollments in urban areas but face safety and mobility challenges that hinder education and career access.
A Model for Social and Financial Impact
Globally, PBSA has proven to be a resilient asset class, with markets like the UK achieving occupancy rates above 90%. One Homes aims to replicate this success in Pakistan by combining financial sustainability with meaningful social outcomes.
A Vision for the Future
“This is an opportunity to redefine student housing in Pakistan,” added Hassan. “By creating institutional-grade developments in key locations, we’re building not just homes but a foundation for growth and progress.”
About One Homes
One Homes, part of One Group, is a leading foreign investor in Pakistan’s real estate sector. The company is known for innovative projects, including One Canal Road in Lahore and Amaya Residences in Islamabad. Founded by entrepreneur Zeeshaan Shah, One Homes is committed to delivering both economic and social value through its developments.
