Napier Road forms the eastern edge of Karachi's Old Town, made up of the neighborhoods of Mithadar and Jodia Bazaar, and separates it from the newer districts of Nanak Wara and Ranchore Lines, which were laid out in the colonial era and home to the city's old jail.

[3][4] Because prostitution is illegal in Pakistan, the majority of Napier Road's brothels masquerade as dancing halls and theaters.

The women refer to themselves as entertainers doing mujras (dance), and arrangements for sexual services are usually made through private pimps.

[1] The sex trade was closed in 1999 under then Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.

[1] Following campaigning and High Court cases, the Mohtasib-e-Aala (Federal Ombudsman) ruled the area could continue as before.