5G in Pakistan – Launch Date, Speeds, and Coverage

Wondering when 5G is launching in Pakistan? Here’s everything about the 5G launch date, expected internet speeds, and coverage areas across Pakistan.

📡 What Is 5G?

5G is the fifth generation of mobile internet technology. It’s faster, more reliable, and supports more connected devices at once. Compared to 4G, 5G offers lower latency, better streaming, and improved download/upload speeds.

🇵🇰 Is 5G Available in Pakistan?

As of mid-2025, 5G in Pakistan is still in testing and trial phases. Telecom operators like Zong, Jazz, and PTCL (Ufone) have tested 5G networks in selected cities, but nationwide 5G coverage is not yet live.

📅 5G Launch Date in Pakistan (Expected)

According to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), the expected launch date of 5G in Pakistan is late 2025 or early 2026. Delays have occurred due to:

• Infrastructure challenges
• High setup costs
• Spectrum auction delays
• Economic conditions

The PTA aims to roll out 5G in phases, starting with major cities.

🏙️ 5G Coverage in Pakistan (Cities)

Initial 5G rollout will likely target major urban areas. Here are the expected first cities to get 5G in Pakistan:

• Islamabad
• Lahore
• Karachi
• Rawalpindi
• Faisalabad
• Peshawar

These cities have higher internet usage and better infrastructure, making them ideal for 5G testing.

⚡ 5G Internet Speeds in Pakistan

During 5G trials, operators achieved impressive speeds:

• Zong 5G trial: Up to 1.8 Gbps
• Jazz 5G demo: Around 1.5 Gbps
• PTCL-Ufone 5G test: Near 1 Gbps

For everyday users, real-world 5G speed in Pakistan is expected to range between 300 Mbps to 800 Mbps, depending on signal strength, location, and device.

📱 Do You Need a New SIM or Phone for 5G?

Yes, to use 5G in Pakistan, you’ll need:

• A 5G-enabled smartphone
• A compatible 5G SIM (once available)
• A telecom network offering active 5G service in your city

Popular 5G phones available in Pakistan include:

• Samsung Galaxy S22/S23
• iPhone 13/14/15
• Xiaomi Mi 11/12 series
• OnePlus 10 Pro
• Vivo V27 Pro

📶 5G Benefits for Pakistan

Here’s how 5G will help the country:

• Faster internet for all
• Smooth 4K/8K video streaming
• Better gaming experience (low ping)
• Boost in online education and freelancing
• Support for smart cities and IoT (Internet of Things)

5G will also help industries like agriculture, healthcare, e-commerce, and transport.

⚠️ Challenges to 5G Launch in Pakistan

• Expensive spectrum licensing
• Weak digital infrastructure
• High inflation and import restrictions
• Limited availability of 5G phones

These factors could slow down the full-scale launch of 5G in Pakistan.

🔚 Final Thoughts

While 5G isn’t live across Pakistan yet, the groundwork is being laid. Trials are complete, and the government is planning a gradual rollout starting in 2025. Once launched, 5G will transform digital connectivity, helping Pakistan move toward a faster, smarter future.