5G launch date announced for 7 major cities in Pakistan

Pakistan is moving closer to 5G as the IT Ministry has approved the official spectrum auction set for February 26, 2026. This step marks the beginning of commercial 5G services in the country. In the first phase, the network will be launched in seven major cities, bringing much faster internet speeds.

Government officials say this is a bold but necessary move. They expect commercial 5G services to start within six months after the auction. Officials also believe that many long-standing 4G network issues will improve once 5G is introduced.

The arrival of high-speed internet is no longer just a plan. The upcoming auction is not a test run, but a full commercial launch. The government aims to make 5G services live by August 2026, which could benefit businesses, students, and digital startups across the country.

First 7 Cities to Get 5G in Pakistan

The initial rollout will focus on Pakistan’s biggest and most developed cities. These include Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Peshawar, and Multan. These cities already have the required fiber infrastructure to support the minimum 5G speed of 50 Mbps.

5G SIM and Mobile Phone Requirements

Many users are wondering if they will need a new 5G SIM. The good news is that most existing 4G SIMs will continue to work. However, users will need a 5G-compatible smartphone. The device must support the 3500 MHz and 2600 MHz bands to access the new network.

The 5G project will also improve services for current 4G users. The auction will release 600 MHz of new spectrum, which is expected to increase average 4G speeds from 4 Mbps to 20 Mbps by mid-2026.

For the first phase, the IT Ministry will give priority to industrial areas and universities. This move aims to support economic growth, innovation, and faster digital development as the new network expands across the country.

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