Pakistan is preparing to launch the sale of the Roosevelt Hotel in New York, with the government aiming to take the landmark property to the market by December 2026. The move comes as several US financial institutions have reportedly expressed interest in the high-profile asset, highlighting its strong investment appeal.
The update was shared by Privatization Secretary Usman Bajwa during a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Privatization. He said the government’s objective is to attract multiple interested buyers, creating a competitive environment that could help secure the highest possible return from the sale.
Roosevelt Hotel Remains Under Government Ownership
Unlike other assets linked to Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), the Roosevelt Hotel was not included in the airline’s privatization deal. Instead, it continues to be owned through the PIA Holding Company, making it one of Pakistan’s most valuable overseas properties.
Its location in the heart of New York and its long-standing reputation make it a significant asset that has drawn attention from international investors over the years.
Strategy Still Being Finalized
Although preparations for the sale are progressing, the government has not yet finalized the structure of the transaction. Officials are still considering whether the property should be offered through a joint venture or another investment model.
In addition, authorities are evaluating which categories of foreign investors should be invited to participate in the bidding process. These decisions are expected to influence both the level of investor interest and the overall success of the transaction.
Creating a Competitive Bidding Process
The government’s approach is focused on encouraging broad participation from potential buyers rather than relying on a single investor. By generating competition among interested parties, officials believe they can maximize the property’s market value and achieve the best financial outcome.
Reports that US banks have shown interest indicate that the Roosevelt Hotel remains an attractive investment opportunity, particularly because of its prime location in one of the world’s most active real estate markets.
What This Means for Pakistan
The planned sale of the Roosevelt Hotel forms part of Pakistan’s wider privatization and economic reform agenda. Successfully completing the transaction could generate significant revenue for the government while demonstrating its commitment to managing state-owned assets more efficiently.
As policymakers finalize the investment framework and prepare the property for the market, investors will be watching closely to see how the sale unfolds. If the process attracts strong international participation, it could become one of Pakistan’s most notable overseas asset transactions in recent years.