PANAMA PACIFICO

ARRAIJAN DISTRICT

Panama

Proposed Participant

Panama Pacífico is Latin America’s largest mixed‑use real estate development, transforming the former Howard Air Force Base into a major Special Economic Zone (SEZ), business hub, and residential community in Arraiján District, Panama. Created under Law 41 in 2004 and developed by a consortium of London & Regional Panama and Colombian banker Jaime Gilinski, the project repurposes 1,400 hectares of brownfield military infrastructure into a sustainable, integrated city that connects people, businesses, and nature 30 minutes from downtown Panama City.

Panama Pacífico spans 1,400 hectares, with 800–850 hectares designated for mixed‑use development (offices, warehouses, retail, and housing) and 600 hectares preserved for conservation, parks, and green corridors. The masterplan targets 1 million m² of commercial space, 20,000–30,000 homes, 40,000 permanent jobs, and extensive amenities including shopping centres, international schools, healthcare facilities, a 37‑hectare Central Park, and an 18‑hole golf course.

Future Cities criteria compliance

Environmental & Nature

The masterplan integrates urban areas with 600 hectares of preserved wetlands and forests, using green corridors and water‑sensitive design to manage climate risks. Walkable neighbourhoods reduce car dependency by placing parks and services within a 5‑minute walk of homes, prioritising low‑carbon living and environmental resilience.

Smart City

Panama Pacífico leverages high‑quality legacy infrastructure alongside modern digital services and smart utilities. Its streamlined “One Stop Shop” embeds digital governance for business efficiency, while the zone serves as a hub for high‑tech logistics, manufacturing, and shared services aligned with Panama’s digital strategy.

Human-Centric

Designed for “village living,” the community centres on a Town Centre with retail, dining, and public spaces surrounded by diverse housing. Extensive amenities, including international schools, healthcare, sports facilities, and a private bus system, support a high quality of life for residents and workers, balancing economic productivity with wellbeing.

Interesting Links

Links to external websites and video features available for cities and developments that apply and are accepted as Official Participants: click here to apply