ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is preparing to host a grand sporting spectacle as plans for the South Asian Games 2027 gather pace, with the estimated cost of organizing the mega event crossing Rs5 billion, provided peace and stability prevail across the subcontinent and the Middle East.
The Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination, in close collaboration with the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA), has finalized a comprehensive proposed budget aimed at staging the Games in a befitting and internationally competitive manner.
According to initial documents available with The News, a major portion of the expenditure will be directed towards the upgradation of sports venues and the organization of impressive opening and closing ceremonies at Islamabad’s Jinnah Stadium.
“We are in consultation with the Ministries of Planning and Finance to finalize the financial framework,” a senior official said. “Only after their approval will the exact figure be confirmed.” The proposed budget has already been forwarded to the relevant authorities for inclusion in the next federal financial plan.
Officials revealed that the largest chunk of the budget will go into establishing the Games Secretariat and staging the opening and closing ceremonies, which are expected to cost over Rs1.5 billion. This includes administrative and operational expenses required to run the Secretariat smoothly.
Authorities are drawing lessons from the highly successful 2004 South Asian Games, widely regarded as Pakistan’s best-organized international sporting event. The early establishment of the Secretariat at that time, two years prior to the Games played a pivotal role in its success, a model officials aim to replicate for 2027.
Around Rs one billion is expected to be allocated for the procurement of sports equipment, both locally and through imports. This also includes IT equipment. Officials noted that certain specialized gear required for international competitions is not available domestically and must be sourced from abroad.
Infrastructure upgrades are projected to cost approximately Rs250 million. While Pakistan already possesses several venues capable of hosting international events, many require significant renovation and modernization to meet current global standards. Rising construction costs are also likely to impact the final expenditure.
A substantial portion of the budget will also be spent on athlete preparation and logistical arrangements, including hiring foreign and local coaches, organizing training camps, and ensuring boarding and lodging facilities for participating teams and for the local camp trainees.
“These are essential components of hosting a successful international event,” an official emphasized. “Proper training, quality coaching, and world-class hospitality are critical to both performance and reputation.”
The successful hosting of the South Asian Games 2027 will not only highlight Pakistan’s sporting capabilities but also serve as a reflection of its organizational strength and regional engagement. However, much depends on sustained peace and stability in the region. Islamabad will host 23 sports during the 14th South Asian Games scheduled in March 2027 in Pakistan.
Islamabad will be the main centre of the Games and will host nearly 80% of the 28 disciplines to be contested during the 12-day mega event. If all goes according to plan, the event could mark a major milestone in Pakistan’s sporting revival, reviving the legacy of 2004 and presenting a positive image of the country on the global stage.
