By S.M Inam
KARACHI: Saudi Arabia is set to establish a crypto and blockchain zone in Karachi while also exploring wider investment opportunities linked to major infrastructure and maritime development projects.
Pakistan’s government is currently working on regularising crypto trade, a move described in official discussions as part of broader digital finance reforms. Authorities are also pursuing investment partnerships with international stakeholders to develop large scale commercial zones in key urban centres.
A memorandum of understanding has been signed between the Karachi Port Trust, the Saudi Business Council Najd Gateway Holding Company, Arif Habib Dolmen REIT Management Ltd and the Pakistan Corporate Consortium. The agreement outlines plans to develop a maritime business district on a 140 acre site at Karachi Port.
According to officials, the proposed project includes a crypto and blockchain zone, a digital banking park, and an Islamic finance centre. It also envisions modern banking units alongside a smart port integration system aimed at improving logistics and trade efficiency.
The broader plan includes a marine technology and logistics zone, digitalised customs and shipping services, and research and development facilities for maritime software. Authorities have also proposed international hospitals, a medical university and a maritime and trade law school as part of supporting infrastructure.
Commercial development components include skyscrapers, convention centres, luxury hotels and corporate hubs designed to attract foreign investment and create employment opportunities.
Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said the initiative aimed to transform Karachi Port’s waterfront into a modern commercial hub. He added that regulatory and legal requirements would be fulfilled before implementation and that the project could position Pakistan as a regional centre for maritime commerce and investment.
