HRL signs MoU for new smart city development in Uzbekistan

August 24, 2026 (MLN): A new smart city project in Khiva, Uzbekistan, is set to advance Pakistan-Uzbekistan economic cooperation after Habib Rafiq Engineering (Pvt.) Ltd. (HRL) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Khorezm Region.

The proposed development will form part of the expansion of the historic city of Khiva and aims to create new opportunities for investment, innovation, economic growth and regional connectivity, according to APP.

The MoU was signed at the Governor’s Office in Urgench, the provincial capital of Khorezm Region, by Khalid Taimur Akram on behalf of HRL and Deputy Governor of Khorezm Region Alisher Dushanov.

The initiative was spearheaded by HRL Group Chairman Zahid Rafiq and Vice Chairman Jahanzaib Zahid, with a focus on strengthening regional connectivity, economic cooperation and sustainable development between friendly countries.

HRL will contribute its experience in large-scale infrastructure, real estate and smart city development to the proposed project. In Pakistan, the company has been involved in major urban developments including Capital Smart City Islamabad, covering approximately 14,500 acres, and Lahore Smart City.

The proposed Khiva smart city will seek to integrate modern infrastructure and technology while preserving the city’s historical and cultural identity. Khiva has more than 2,500 years of history and is regarded as one of Central Asia’s significant historic cities and cultural destinations.

Under the envisioned development, HRL plans to bring expertise in smart urban planning, infrastructure, transportation networks, utilities and sustainable city solutions to Uzbekistan and the wider Central Asian region.

The project aims to establish a modern, sustainable and well-connected urban environment while respecting Khiva’s heritage and creating opportunities for residents, businesses, investors and future generations.

HRL appreciated the Government of Khorezm Region for its confidence and cooperation and expressed its intention to work closely with Uzbek authorities to advance the project.

The company also appreciated Laziz Kudratov for his continued support and encouragement of foreign companies operating in Uzbekistan, contributing to greater international cooperation and investment.

The initiative is aligned with Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s vision of accelerating modernization, sustainable development and international partnerships across the country.

The proposed development could mark a new chapter in Pakistan-Uzbekistan economic cooperation by combining Pakistan’s infrastructure expertise with Uzbekistan’s efforts toward modern and sustainable urban development.

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