One Homes to Launch Pakistan's First Student Housing Development

Lahore — One Homes, a British real estate group with $435 million worth of projects under development in Pakistan, is addressing the critical student housing shortage with a women-first approach.

Pakistan has over 22.6 million higher education students, yet no Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) exists to meet their needs. Experts estimate this untapped sector to be worth over $30 billion annually, presenting both an opportunity and a responsibility to address a pressing social challenge.

To lead this effort, One Homes has acquired a prime site in Lahore’s higher education district to create Pakistan’s first purpose-built student community. The first phase of the project will prioritise female students, providing safe, accessible, and secure housing to a group disproportionately affected by housing shortages and safety concerns.

“This is about more than housing—it’s about empowering women and creating opportunities,” said Aqib Hassan, Chief Commercial Officer of One Homes. “Young women are shaping Pakistan’s future, and they deserve an environment that enables them to thrive. By prioritizing their needs, we’re creating a platform for education, independence, and growth.”

Currently, women account for over 50% of university enrollments in Pakistan’s urban centers, yet many are unable to pursue higher education or professional opportunities due to inadequate housing and safety concerns.

The development, strategically located near Lahore’s university hub and over a dozen higher education institutions, will address these barriers. By creating a safe and inclusive environment, the project aims to enable more women to access education and careers without compromise.

“Our women-first approach is not just a phase—it’s the foundation of this project,” Hassan added. “We’re designing every aspect of this development to prioritize safety, accessibility, and community for women, ensuring they have the tools to succeed.”

Globally, Purpose-Built Student Accommodation has proven both profitable and impactful. The UK’s $110 billion PBSA market maintains occupancy rates above 90%, showcasing its viability as an asset class. Pakistan, with its growing student population and urbanization trends, presents a unique opportunity to combine financial sustainability with social progress.

Hassan concluded, “This project is a step toward building a more inclusive future for Pakistan. By addressing the needs of women first, we’re creating a model for progress that benefits the entire community.”

One Homes, part of One Group, is a leading foreign investor in Pakistan’s real estate sector. The company’s portfolio includes prominent projects such as One Canal Road in Lahore and Amaya Residences in Islamabad. With a reputation for innovation and collaboration, One Homes is committed to delivering developments that drive meaningful impact.

Founded by serial entrepreneur Zeeshaan Shah, One Homes continues to focus on projects that combine social responsibility with long-term value creation.