Islamabad, founded in 1961, is Pakistan's capital and the eighth largest city. Located in the northwest of the country, the city is famed for its picturesque beauty, lush greenery, and tranquil surroundings. The city is surrounded by four administrative zones: Rawalpindi, Kohsarak, Jamshoro, and Soreng. Islamabad is also home to an array of mosques, museums, research centers, and other landmarks, making it a cultural hub.
Tips for expats in Islamabad
Visa requirements
Expat visa requirements for Pakistan vary depending on the nationality of the foreigner. It is essential to obtain a valid visa before moving to Islamabad. Consult your nearest Pakistani embassy or consulate for the latest visa and immigration guidelines.
Language resources
English is widely spoken in Islamabad, making it easy for expats to communicate. However, it is always recommended to learn Urdu, the national language of Pakistan, to better integrate into local communities.
Cost of living for expats in Islamabad
Housing
Accommodation options in Islamabad vary, depending on the location and amenities required. Shared housing options are affordable, with rents ranging from PKR 20,000 to PKR 35,000 per month. A one-bedroom apartment averages around PKR 40,000 to PKR 60,000 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment is approximately between PKR 75,000 and PKR 100,000 per month. For families, a three-bedroom house is available from PKR 150,000 to PKR 200,000 per month.
Groceries
Grocery shopping in Islamabad is affordable, with a variety of supermarkets offering products ranging from locally sourced fruits and vegetables to imported items. Prices will vary depending on the store and the items purchased, but expats can expect to pay around PKR 500 (USD 3.30) to PKR 1500 (USD 10) per week for groceries.
Transportation
Transportation expenses in Islamabad are reasonable, with options like the metro bus, rickshaws, and motorcabs providing cost-effective options. Monthly fares for the metro bus are around PKR 650 (USD 3.90) for adults and PKR 325 (USD 2) for children. Rickshaws and motorcabs can be hired for around PKR 400 (USD 2.60) to PKR 600 (USD 3.90) for short distances, while longer distances may cost PKR 1200 (USD 8) or more.
Climate in Islamabad
Islamabad's climate is temperate, with pleasant summers, cold winters, and moderate rainfall. The average temperature in summer is around 28°C (82°F), while winter temperatures dip below 5°C (41°F). Rain is abundant during the monsoon season, which falls from July to September.
Job market in Islamabad
The job market in Islamabad is diverse, with opportunities available in private and public sectors. The service industry is high-growth and offers employment in areas such as finance, banking, hospitality, construction, and healthcare. Some notable organizations headquartered in Islamabad include Pakland, NESPAK, HBL, NBP, and Shell.
Healthcare in Islamabad
Islamabad has a well-developed healthcare system, with private and public hospitals providing healthcare services to the population. Some prominent healthcare facilities in Islamabad include Shifa International Hospital, PIMS (Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences), Polyclinic International Hospital, and National Healthcare Hospitals (NHCH). The city also boasts specialized medical centers like the National Institute of Heart Diseases (NIHD), National Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine (NIRM), and the National Institute for Child Health (NICH).
Transport in Islamabad
The transportation network in Islamabad is well-connected, with a combination of public and private transportation options. Islamabad's primary mode of public transport is the metro bus, which has multiple routes, making it convenient to travel around the city. Motorcycles, motorcabs, and rickshaws are other modes of private transportation available at affordable prices.
Safety in Islamabad
Islamabad is generally a safe city to live in, with low crime rates. However, it is essential to exercise caution and common sense, particularly in crowded areas, evening hours, and during special events. The western and central areas of Islamabad are typically considered safer than the eastern part of the city.
Neighborhoods in Islamabad
Blue Area
Blue Area is a stylish and trendy neighborhood, popular among expats due to its proximity to government offices, embassies, and luxury housing complexes. It's a sophisticated area with excellent infrastructure, including a well-connected transportation network, clean streets, and easy access to shops, restaurants, and supermarkets.
Islamabad Sector H-13
Islamabad Sector H-13 is a luxury housing complex, offering expats world-class living standards. The area is well-developed, featuring modern infrastructure, sociable communities, and excellent amenities. The Hiltop Garden Apartments and the Blue Bearn Condominiums are some of the most popular residential locations in H-13.
G-8/4
G-8/4 is a bustling commercial and residential area, offering a perfect mix of modernity and tradition. The local markets of G-8/4, such as the Saturday Market, offer a variety of fresh produce, clothing, and handicrafts. This neighborhood is known for its lively energy, friendly locals, and affordable housing options.
Attractions in Islamabad
Monal
Monal is the highest-altitude funicular railway in the region, located in the Margalla Hills. Offering a stunning view of Islamabad, guests can experience the city's beauty from a different perspective. The ride takes around 15 minutes, during which one can enjoy refreshments, live music, and breathtaking scenery.
Shakarparian
Shakarparian is a scenic park, situated in the foothills of Margalla. This vast park encompasses green fields, tennis courts, and a bird zoo, making it an excellent place for families to enjoy a peaceful recreational activity. Shakarparian also has a traditional amusement park that provides fun for both children and adults.
Daman-e-Koh
Daman-e-Koh is a visual feast that boasts panoramic views of the city skyline, situated at the top of Margalla Hills. It comprises a single restaurant, providing an enchanting dining experience, with an inviting ambiance and overwhelming views.
International Schools in Islamabad
International Islamic University Islamabad
Sector H-10
International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) is a prestigious educational institution that has been ranked among the top 100 universities in Asia. It is an autonomous public university, recognized by Pakistani authorities and HEC for international students. IIUI offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and Ph.D. Programs in various disciplines to international students. The campus has state-of-the-art infrastructure, libraries, and sporting facilities.
Callen School
Sector G-12
Callen School is a modern institution that aims to provide educational excellence to school-going children. The school follows the British system of education, aiming to inculcate ethos, values, responsibility, and skills in its students. Callen School is affiliated with Cambridge University and has a team of highly qualified and experienced faculty members.
Crest Valley International School
Sector G-13
Crest Valley International School is a private, co-educational institution, accredited by US Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (CASI). Crest Valley International School follows the US curriculum and provides the International Baccalaureate (IB) program in grades 11 and 12. The school's campus caters to students from PKG1 to grade 12.
Useful expat resources in Islamabad
Governor's House School & College
international school in Islamabad offering IB, A Levels, and GCSE curricula.
Capital Development Authority (CDA)
Official web portal for the Capital Development Authority (CDA) that provides online services for property registration, building permissions, and land record searches.
Islamabad Medical & Dental College (IMDC)
The official website of IMDC that provides information about its MDC and DMC programmes, as well as admissions and course details.
