Jinnah Convention Centre is an exhibition and convention centre based in Islamabad, Pakistan. It is named after Muhammad Ali Jinnah. The convention centre was inaugurated in 1997 at the First Extraordinary Summit of OIC. The Jinnah Convention Centre, also known as the National Convention Centre, stands as a prominent landmark in Islamabad, Pakistan’s meticulously planned capital city. Named in honor of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the nation’s founder, this expansive facility was inaugurated in 1997 specifically to host the First Extraordinary Summit of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, marking its immediate role in international diplomacy. Managed by the Capital Development Authority, it boasts a main auditorium with seating for up to 2,200 delegates, complemented by multiple committee rooms, exhibition halls, and ample parking for over 1,000 vehicles across three lots. Strategically located at one end of the iconic Constitution Avenue, the centre serves as the primary venue for government-led national ceremonies, university convocations, trade exhibitions, and high-profile conferences, embodying the architectural blend of modern functionality and cultural significance that defines Islamabad’s urban landscape.
In recent years, the Jinnah Convention Centre has undergone significant renovations to elevate it to world-class standards, particularly in preparation for events like the 2024 Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Council of Heads of Government meeting. Under the oversight of top architects, upgrades include state-of-the-art audiovisual systems, SMD screens, digital conferencing tools, and comprehensive refurbishments to its 200,000 square feet of covered space, including modernized toilets and corridors. These enhancements not only address long-standing maintenance needs but also position the centre as a competitive hub for global summits and private sector events, from fashion shows and tech expos to cultural festivals. Despite past discussions on privatization in 2020, the facility remains a vital public asset, fostering economic and diplomatic activities that underscore Pakistan’s growing role on the international stage.
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