Naeem Khanani: Pioneering Real Estate Security Tokens (REST) in Pakistan

Revolutionizing Pakistan’s Real Estate with Blockchain Technology In a groundbreaking move for Pakistan’s real estate sector, Naeem Khanani, CEO of DigiEstate Private Limited, is spearheading the introduction of Real Estate Security Tokens (REST) on blockchain-based technology. This pioneering initiative is being conducted under sandbox testing with key regulatory bodies, including the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), Central Depository Company (CDC), National Clearing Company of Pakistan Limited (NCCPL), and Arif Habib Dolmen REIT Management Limited (AHDRML). REST aims to digitize and democratize real estate investment, providing secure, transparent, and fractional ownership of high-value assets. By integrating blockchain’s distributed ledger technology (DLT) into Pakistan’s property sector, Khanani is setting the stage for a new era of real estate investments, ensuring efficiency, liquidity, and enhanced investor confidence in a highly regulated and controlled environment.

Bridging Traditional Real Estate and Fintech Innovation

As Program Director at REIT Academy and the Institute of Real Assets Development & Management (IRADM), Khanani is also shaping the future of Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and asset-backed securities in Pakistan. His efforts focus on enhancing financial literacy, investor education, and professional training in structured real estate investments. Moreover, Khanani is the solo representative from Pakistan at the Asia Pacific Real Estate Association (APREA), where he actively contributes to discussions on regional real estate trends, investment frameworks, and regulatory developments. His global insights and collaborations with leading fintech and real estate institutions position Pakistan’s real estate sector at the forefront of digital transformation. Independent Director & Chairman Audit Roles Beyond his leadership at DigiEstate, Khanani serves as an Independent Director and Chairman of Audit Committees at:

• Arif Habib Dolmen REIT Management Ltd
• Dolmen City REIT (PSX)
• Globe Residency REIT (PSX)

These roles reinforce his expertise in corporate governance, financial oversight, and strategic decision-making within Pakistan’s evolving REIT landscape.

A Visionary in Fintech & Real Estate

With a career spanning three decades in engineering, real estate, and fintech, Khanani’s leadership at DigiEstate marks a paradigm shift in asset tokenization and blockchain-driven investments. By working alongside SECP, CDC, and NCCPL, his efforts could pave the way for Pakistan’s first regulated blockchain-based real estate investment ecosystem. As REST moves through the regulatory sandbox, the potential for wider adoption, regulatory approvals, and institutional partnerships grows stronger. If successful, this initiative could position Pakistan as a regional leader in blockchain-enabled real estate investments, attracting both domestic and foreign investors to a more secure, transparent, and liquid property market. For more updates on Naeem Khanani’s pioneering fintech innovations, follow him on LinkedIn: LinkedIn Profile.