SECP Revamps Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) Regulations 2022: A Game Changer for Real Estate Investors in Pakistan
Islamabad, January 05, 2026
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has introduced significant amendments to the Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) Regulations, 2022, aiming to accelerate growth, enhance transparency, and strengthen investor confidence in Pakistan’s real estate sector.
SECP press Release about REIT regulations
These reforms mark a major milestone for real estate investors, developers, and institutions, particularly in cities like Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Karachi, where structured real estate investment demand is rising rapidly.
What Are REITs and Why They Matter?
A Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) is a regulated investment vehicle in which a REIT Management Company (RMC) pools funds from investors to invest in income-generating real estate projects such as:
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Commercial buildings
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Shopping malls
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Office towers
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Rental apartments
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Mixed-use developments
By investing in a REIT, individuals and institutions become unit holders, earning returns through rental income and capital appreciation, without directly managing property.
REITs are globally recognized as a safe, transparent, and liquid real estate investment model—and Pakistan is now strengthening its framework to match international best practices.
Key Highlights of SECP’s Amended REIT Regulations 2022
1. Simplified Procedures & Faster Execution
SECP has streamlined procedures for:
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Registration of trust deeds
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Approval and registration of REIT Schemes
This reduces delays and makes REIT formation more efficient, encouraging new projects to enter the market faster.
2. Clear Timelines for Property & Share Transfers
The amendments introduce defined timelines for:
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Transfer of real estate assets
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Transfer of shares of Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs)
This promotes early listing of REIT schemes, improving market visibility and investor participation.
3. Stronger Governance & Oversight
The roles and responsibilities of:
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REIT Management Companies (RMCs)
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Trustees
have been strengthened to ensure:
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Better internal controls
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Enhanced investor protection
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Reduced regulatory arbitrage between different REIT structures
4. Alignment with Shariah Governance Framework
A major improvement is the better synchronization with Shariah governance, making REITs more attractive for Islamic investors and Shariah-compliant funds.
5. Clear Definition of Real Estate Assets
The amendments refine the definition of real estate by distinguishing between:
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Passive components (rent-generating assets)
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Active components (development or operational activities)
Additionally, income and asset tests—aligned with international REIT standards—ensure that REIT schemes remain primarily invested in real estate.
6. Extensive Stakeholder Consultation
SECP conducted a comprehensive consultation process involving:
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REIT Management Companies
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Trustees & banks
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Mutual funds
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Law firms & consultants
This inclusive approach ensures the regulations are practical, market-driven, and investor-friendly.
What This Means for Real Estate Investors in Pakistan
These amendments make REITs:
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✅ More transparent
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✅ Better regulated
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✅ Easier to invest in
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✅ Attractive for local & overseas Pakistanis
For investors who want exposure to real estate without buying physical property, REITs now offer a secure, regulated, and scalable option.
Opportunities for Developers & Landowners
If you own:
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Commercial property
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Rental buildings
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Large land parcels suitable for development
You can now structure projects under REIT schemes, unlock liquidity, and attract institutional capital—especially in Islamabad and Rawalpindi’s prime sectors.
How Ghandhara Estate Can Help You
At Ghandhara Estate, we assist investors and developers with:
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📊 Real estate investment advisory
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🏢 Commercial & rental property sourcing
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📑 Due diligence & regulatory guidance
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🤝 Connecting landowners with institutional investors
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🏗️ Structuring income-generating real estate projects
Whether you are an investor looking for stable returns or a developer planning a REIT-ready project, our expert team can guide you at every step.
Final Thoughts
SECP’s revised REIT Regulations 2022 signal a new era for Pakistan’s real estate investment landscape. With stronger governance, clearer rules, and enhanced transparency, REITs are set to become a preferred investment vehicle for both local and international investors.
Now is the right time to position yourself ahead of the market.
📞 Contact Ghandhara Estate Today
Phone: 0300-9568645
Website: www.ghandharaestate.com
Invest Smart. Invest Secure. Invest with Confidence.