The design of Islamabad’s proposed cricket stadium has been unveiled, offering a first look at a venue planned to accommodate 35,000 spectators near Sector D-12 at the foothills of the Margalla Hills.
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has completed the bidding process for the project, with construction expected to begin after the required approvals and preparations are completed.
The stadium is planned as a major addition to Pakistan’s cricket infrastructure and could provide Islamabad with a venue for international matches.
Architectural visuals show a modern, circular stadium featuring three tiers of seating, partially covered stands and views of the surrounding hills. The proposed design also includes a glass-fronted exterior, spacious entrances, landscaped walkways, parking facilities and access roads.
Rs8.9 Billion Bid Submitted for Stadium Project
According to a report by Dawn, the Habib-ZKB-EA joint venture submitted a bid of Rs8.9 billion against the project’s estimated cost of Rs11.9 billion.
The reported bid includes Rs5.8 billion for the three-tier stadium structure and Rs3.1 billion for external development and related infrastructure.
The external works are expected to include approximately three kilometres of six-lane roads, alongside other facilities required to provide access to the venue.
The final project cost and implementation arrangements will depend on the formal award and the applicable contract terms.
Construction Preparations Underway Near D-12
The CDA has begun work on an approach road connecting Margalla Road near Sector D-12 to the proposed stadium site.
The road is intended to improve access to the venue and forms part of the wider infrastructure planned around the project.
According to the reported details, the first phase of construction is expected to be completed within one year of work beginning. The authority is preparing for a groundbreaking ceremony and is awaiting approval from the interior minister to formally launch the project.
The construction schedule will depend on the start date, the completion of required formalities and progress on the site.
Stadium Could Support International Cricket
A Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) official told Dawn that the proposed venue would resemble Dubai Cricket Stadium.
If completed on schedule and approved for international fixtures, the stadium could expand Pakistan’s capacity to host major cricket events. The reported plans also indicate that Islamabad could potentially host matches during the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2028.
However, hosting the tournament would depend on the stadium being completed in time and meeting the relevant requirements. The available information does not establish that matches have been formally allocated to the proposed venue.
A 35,000-seat stadium would provide a significant new option for cricket events in the federal capital, subject to the project’s completion and operational readiness.
Zone III Construction Rules Raise Questions
The proposed site lies within Zone III of Islamabad, where construction is generally restricted. The CDA’s position, according to the report, is that sports and recreational facilities are permitted in the area.
The planning and regulatory position remains an important aspect of the project as preparations advance. The applicable approvals and compliance requirements will need to be addressed before construction proceeds fully.
For now, the stadium remains a proposed development, with the design revealed and bidding completed. The next major milestones are the formal project launch, commencement of construction and progress towards the first-phase completion target.
