Public Holidays In Pakistan 2026 (1 January to 31 December)

Waking up unsure whether schools or offices will remain open can disrupt your entire day’s planning. Knowing the complete schedule of public holidays in Pakistan 2026 eliminates this uncertainty and empowers you to schedule vacations, business operations, and family gatherings with confidence. This comprehensive guide presents the officially notified calendar from the Cabinet Division, covering all national celebrations, religious observances, and community-specific holidays throughout the year. Whether you manage workforce schedules, plan educational calendars, or simply want to maximize your time off, this resource provides everything you need.

Key Takeaways

• Extended Eid Breaks Create Travel Opportunities: The March 2026 Eid-ul-Fitr holidays combine with Pakistan Day to deliver four consecutive days off, while the May Eid-ul-Azha period spans three days that can stretch into a five-day weekend with strategic leave planning.
• Three Bank-Specific Closures Require Attention: Financial institutions remain closed on January 1, February 18, and July 1 for administrative purposes, though these dates do not affect government offices or most businesses.
• Moon Sighting Determines Final Islamic Dates: All religious holidays marked with asterisks in official notifications depend on Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee announcements, potentially shifting schedules by one day based on crescent visibility.
• Optional Holidays Serve Minority Communities: Twenty-three optional observances accommodate Christian, Hindu, Sikh, and other communities, with clear rules allowing up to three days for non-Muslim employees and one day for Muslim staff.
• Provincial Variations May Apply: While federal holidays apply nationwide, provincial governments occasionally declare additional regional holidays, particularly in Sindh for cultural events and political commemorations.

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Public Holidays In Pakistan 2026 (1 January to 31 December)

Official Government Notification: Understanding the 2026 Holiday Framework

The Cabinet Secretariat issued the authoritative public holiday notification through the Cabinet Division in January 2026, establishing the complete schedule for all federal government institutions nationwide. This document serves as the primary reference for provincial governments, autonomous bodies, corporations, and educational institutions when planning their annual operational calendars. Understanding this notification’s structure helps citizens distinguish between mandatory closures, optional observances, and sector-specific holidays.

The notification categorizes holidays into three distinct types based on their applicability and purpose. Gazetted holidays require all government offices to remain closed, and most private sector organizations follow suit. Optional holidays appear separately, allowing employees from specific communities to observe their religious festivals without depleting regular leave balances. Bank holidays constitute a third category, applying exclusively to financial institutions for specialized administrative functions.

Public Holidays in Pakistan 2026: Complete Month-by-Month List

Here is the complete, government-notified schedule of public holidays in Pakistan for 2026, presented in an easy-to-reference format. This calendar incorporates all fixed national holidays, the tentative dates for moon-dependent Islamic observances, and key dates for minority communities.

Note: Islamic holidays marked as tentative depend on actual moon sightings and may adjust by ±1 day based on official Ruet-e-Hilal Committee announcements.

Optional Public Holidays in Pakistan 2026: Complete Month-by-Month List

When Did the Government Release the Official 2026 Holiday Notification?

The federal government officially released the complete public holiday calendar for 2026 on January 19, 2026, following the established practice of announcing the full year’s schedule at the start of the calendar year. The Cabinet Division circulated this notification to all federal ministries, provincial governments, and attached departments, ensuring uniform implementation across the country.

This early release allows organizations to:

• Incorporate holidays into annual HR planning and leave policies
• Schedule training programs and maintenance activities around closure dates
• Inform employees well in advance for personal planning
• Coordinate with international partners on availability during Pakistani holidays

What Specific Information Does the Cabinet Division Notification Contain?

The official notification provides comprehensive details about every holiday category for 2026:

Gazetted Public Holidays Schedule
The document lists all 11 mandatory national holidays with their exact dates, days of the week, and official designations. Each entry specifies whether the holiday commemorates a national event, religious observance, or international day.

Islamic Holiday Caveats
For all lunar calendar-based observances, the notification includes clear language stating “subject to moon sighting” and references the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee as the sole authority for final confirmation.

Optional Holiday Provisions
A separate section enumerates 23 optional holidays for minority communities, categorized by religion and festival. The notification specifies that Muslim employees may avail one optional holiday annually, while non-Muslim employees may avail up to three.

Bank Holiday Specifications
Three dates are designated as banking holidays, with explanations of their purpose: January 1 for New Year’s administrative closure, February 18 for Zakat deduction at the start of Ramadan, and July 1 for fiscal year-end procedures.

Do Provincial Governments Follow the Federal Holiday Schedule?

Federal public holidays apply uniformly across all Pakistani provinces, including Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan. The Cabinet Division notification explicitly states that its provisions extend to all federal government offices throughout the country. Provincial governments typically issue their own notifications adopting the federal schedule, often adding regional variations.

Provincial Variations to Anticipate

Organizations operating across multiple provinces should monitor provincial government announcements throughout the year, as additional holidays may be declared with relatively short notice.

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Month-by-Month Breakdown: Complete Public Holidays in Pakistan 2026

This chronological listing presents every officially notified public holiday for 2026, including gazetted observances and significant optional holidays. Islamic dates appear as calculated astronomically, with final confirmation pending official moon sightings.

Complete Holiday Calendar Table

*Subject to moon sighting confirmation

January 2026: Bank Holidays and Preparatory Period

Is January 1 a Public Holiday in Pakistan?

January 1 functions exclusively as a bank holiday in Pakistan, not a public holiday applicable to government offices or general businesses. The State Bank of Pakistan designates this date for all banks to remain closed for administrative purposes, including year-end reconciliation and system updates.

Practical implications for citizens:

• Government offices operate normally on January 1
• Schools and colleges hold regular classes
• Most private businesses maintain regular hours
• Banks remain completely closed for all transactions
• Stock exchange and financial markets observe the closure

What Bank Holidays Occur in January 2026?

The first bank holiday of 2026 falls on January 1, marking the only banking sector closure during the month. This pattern reflects the government’s approach to bank holidays as specialized closures rather than general observances.

18 February 2026 Bank Holiday: Purpose and Procedures

February 18 corresponds to the 1st of Ramazan 1447 AH, designated as a bank holiday specifically for Zakat deduction. On this day:

• Banks across Pakistan remain closed for all customer dealings
• Financial institutions deduct Zakat from eligible savings accounts
• Computer systems calculate and process mandatory charitable deductions
• The holiday applies exclusively to banking institutions

This date’s connection to moon sighting means a potential one-day adjustment if the Ramazan crescent becomes visible earlier or later than astronomical predictions.

February 2026: Kashmir Day and National Solidarity

Why Does Pakistan Observe Kashmir Day on February 5?

Kashmir Day, observed annually on February 5, demonstrates Pakistan’s political and moral support for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination. The date marks the anniversary of a 1950 resolution passed by the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, formalizing the Kashmiri struggle against Indian rule.

Observance activities nationwide:

• Flag-hoisting ceremonies at all government buildings
• Rallies and processions in major cities
• Seminars discussing the Kashmir dispute
• Media broadcasts featuring Kashmiri leaders and perspectives
• Special prayers in mosques for Kashmiri freedom

Are Banks Open on Saturdays During February 2026?

Bank operating hours in February follow the standard monthly pattern established by the State Bank of Pakistan:

Saturday banking schedule for 2026:

• First Saturday (February 7): Working day for all banks
• Second Saturday (February 14): Banks closed
• Third Saturday (February 21): Banks closed
• Fourth Saturday (February 28): Banks closed

This pattern applies throughout the year, with the first Saturday of each month remaining a full working day for financial institutions while subsequent Saturdays observe weekly closure.

Shab-e-Barat 2026: Holiday Status

Shab-e-Barat, observed on the 15th of Shaban (approximately February 2026), does not appear on the gazetted public holiday list. While millions of Pakistanis spend the night in prayer and visit graves of loved ones, the following day remains a normal working period.

March 2026: Pakistan Day and Eid-ul-Fitr Celebrations

When Do Eid-ul-Fitr Holidays Begin in 2026?

The government officially declared March 20 and 21, 2026, as Eid-ul-Fitr holidays for all public institutions operating under both five-day and six-day working week structures. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved this notification, which the Cabinet Division issued on March 15, 2026.

Holiday breakdown for March 2026:

• March 20 (Friday): First official Eid holiday
• March 21 (Saturday): Second official Eid holiday (expected Eid day)
• March 22 (Sunday): Regular weekly holiday
• March 23 (Monday): Pakistan Day national holiday

This arrangement creates four consecutive days off for most citizens, representing one of the year’s most significant break periods.

How Did SUPARCO Predict the Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 Date?

The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission provided scientific calculations indicating Eid-ul-Fitr would likely fall on March 21, 2026. SUPARCO’s analysis revealed:

Astronomical calculations for Shawwal 1447 AH:

• New moon born on March 19 at 6:23 AM Pakistan time
• Moon age at sunset on March 19: approximately 12 hours 41 minutes
• Sunset-moonset interval along coastal belt: estimated 28 minutes
• Crescent visibility conditions: considered very low on March 19

These conditions suggested the Shawwal moon would remain invisible on March 19, requiring Ramadan to complete 30 days and positioning Eid on March 21.

Who Makes the Final Eid Announcement?

The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee serves as Pakistan’s constitutionally recognized authority for announcing Islamic months. SUPARCO explicitly stated that its predictions remain advisory, with the final decision resting entirely on:

• Credible witness testimonies from across Pakistan
• Verified observations by trained moon sighters
• Zonal committee reports from all provinces
• Consensus among religious scholars on sighting validity

What Happens When Pakistan Day Coincides with Eid Holidays?

The 2026 calendar creates a fortunate alignment where Pakistan Day (March 23) follows immediately after the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays. This overlap means:

• No holiday entitlement is lost due to the coincidence
• Citizens enjoy an extended break without additional leave
• Both national and religious celebrations receive full observance
• Government offices remain closed for four consecutive days

Is Pakistan Day a Fixed National Holiday?

March 23 commemorates the Lahore Resolution of 1940, when the All-India Muslim League formally demanded a separate homeland for Muslims of the subcontinent. This date carries immense historical significance and remains a fixed public holiday regardless of which day of the week it falls.

Pakistan Day observance traditions:

• Grand military parade in Islamabad showcasing defense capabilities
• Presidential and Prime Ministerial addresses to the nation
• Award ceremonies conferring civil and military honors
• Flag-hoisting at all government buildings nationwide
• Patriotic programming across television and radio networks

Holi 2026: Optional Holiday for Hindu Community

Holi, the Hindu festival of colors, appears on the optional holidays list for 2026, expected to fall in early March subject to Hindu calendar calculations. Hindu employees may avail this day by:

• Notifying their department heads in advance
• Substituting it for one gazetted holiday in their leave balance
• Providing appropriate documentation if required by their organization
• Coordinating with colleagues to ensure minimal work disruption

April 2026: Easter Observances and Spring Festivals

Does Pakistan Recognize Easter as a Public Holiday?

Easter is not a gazetted public holiday in Pakistan, but both Good Friday (April 3, 2026) and Easter Sunday (April 5, 2026) appear on the optional holidays list for the Christian community. This arrangement allows Christian employees to observe their most sacred religious period without using regular leave.

Good Friday observance for Christians:

• Special church services commemorating crucifixion
• Family gatherings and religious reflection
• Time off for prayer and contemplation

Easter Sunday celebrations:

• Sunrise services at churches nationwide
• Family meals and community gatherings
• Exchange of Easter greetings and gifts

Is Easter Monday a Holiday in Pakistan?

Easter Monday does not receive any official recognition in Pakistan, even as an optional holiday. Christian employees return to work on Monday following Easter weekend unless they have applied for regular leave.

May 2026: Labour Day, Youm-e-Takbeer, and Eid-ul-Azha

Why Is May 1 Observed as Labour Day in Pakistan?

Labour Day, observed on May 1, honors the contributions of workers and commemorates the global labor movement’s historic struggles for workers’ rights. The date traces back to the 1886 Haymarket affair in Chicago, when workers demonstrated for an eight-hour workday.

Labour Day activities in Pakistan:

• Rallies organized by labor unions in major industrial centers
• Presentations of workers’ charters of demands to government officials
• Recognition of outstanding workers through awards
• Seminars on labor rights and workplace safety

Do Private Companies Close on Labour Day?

Private sector observance of Labour Day varies significantly based on company policies and industry norms:

Typical private sector approaches:

• Formal corporate entities usually remain closed
• Banks and financial institutions observe the closure
• Retail establishments often remain open for business
• Small businesses operate at owner discretion
• Multinational companies typically follow government schedules

When Are Eid-ul-Azha 2026 Holidays Scheduled?

The government notification places Eid-ul-Azha holidays from May 27 to 29, 2026, corresponding to the 10th, 11th, and 12th of Zil Haj 1447 AH. This three-day period encompasses:

• May 27 (Wednesday): First day of Eid-ul-Azha (10th Zil Haj)
• May 28 (Thursday): Youm-e-Takbeer (national holiday) and second Eid day
• May 29 (Friday): Third day of Eid holidays (12th Zil Haj)

Strategic leave planning for Eid-ul-Azha:

• Take leave on May 25-26 (Monday-Tuesday) for seven-day break
• Use May 30-31 (weekend) to extend to five days without extra leave
• Plan travel during the break while avoiding peak rush days

What Is Youm-e-Takbeer and Why Is It Observed?

Youm-e-Takbeer, observed on May 28, commemorates Pakistan’s nuclear tests conducted in 1998 at the Chagai hills in Balochistan. Pakistan detonated five nuclear devices in response to India’s nuclear tests earlier that month, establishing credible deterrence and altering the regional strategic balance.

Significance of Youm-e-Takbeer:

• Marks Pakistan’s entry into the nuclear club
• Celebrates national sovereignty and defense capabilities
• Honors scientists and engineers who made the tests possible
• Reinforces commitment to maintaining strategic balance

June 2026: Ashura Observances

What Are the Dates for Ashura 2026?

The 9th and 10th of Muharram 1448 AH correspond to June 24 and 25, 2026 (Wednesday and Thursday) in the official notification. These dates mark the peak of Muharram observances when Muslims, particularly Shia communities, commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS) at Karbala.

Ashura observance activities:

• Mourning processions (Juloos) in cities nationwide
• Majalis (gatherings) where the Karbala story is recounted
• Distribution of food and water (niyaz) to participants
• Recitation of elegies and marsiyas

Are Schools Closed During Ashura in 2026?

All educational institutions across Pakistan remain closed on both Ashura days. This closure allows:

• Students and staff to participate in or observe processions
• Families to attend majalis together
• Reduced traffic congestion on procession routes
• Proper security arrangements without disrupting education

Security measures during Ashura:

• Mobile phone services often suspended in major cities
• Procession routes designated and monitored by law enforcement
• Snipers positioned on rooftops along procession paths
• Female police officers deployed for women’s processions

August 2026: Independence Day and Eid Milad-un-Nabi

What Day Does Independence Day 2026 Fall On?

Pakistan’s Independence Day, August 14, 2026, falls on Friday, creating an automatic three-day weekend for citizens. This timing proves particularly convenient for celebrations, as the holiday combines with Saturday and Sunday for extended observances.

Independence Day celebrations nationwide:

• Flag-hoisting ceremonies at dawn
• Illumination of government buildings and major thoroughfares
• Fireworks displays in major cities
• Patriotic songs and programming on all media
• Special security arrangements for public gatherings

When Is Eid Milad-un-Nabi 2026?

Eid Milad-un-Nabi, commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) on 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal, falls on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, according to the government notification. This gazetted public holiday receives nationwide observance with religious zeal.

Eid Milad-un-Nabi observances:

• Mehfil-e-Naat (poetry recitations in praise of Prophet)
• Processions (Juloos) in all major cities
• Illumination of mosques and public buildings
• Special prayers and gatherings discussing Prophet’s life
• Distribution of food and sweets

November 2026: Iqbal Day

Is November 9 a Public Holiday in Pakistan?

Yes, November 9 is a gazetted public holiday for Allama Iqbal Day, commemorating the birth anniversary of the national poet and philosopher who envisioned a separate homeland for Muslims of the subcontinent. In 2026, this holiday falls on Monday.

Who Was Allama Iqbal?

Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal (1877-1938) stands as one of Pakistan’s founding figures, though he died before the country’s actual creation. His contributions include:

• Philosophical works inspiring Muslim renaissance in South Asia
• Poetry in Persian and Urdu that continues to resonate
• Allahabad Address of 1930 proposing a separate Muslim state
• Mentoring of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah

Iqbal Day observance:

• Seminars discussing Iqbal’s philosophy
• Poetry recitations and literary gatherings
• Special programming on state media
• Wreath-laying at Iqbal’s mausoleum in Lahore

December 2026: Quaid-e-Azam Day, Christmas, and Year-End

Why Is December 25 a Double Holiday in Pakistan?

December 25 holds dual significance as both Quaid-e-Azam Day (birthday of founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah) and Christmas Day for the Christian community. This coincidence creates a unique national day that simultaneously honors the country’s founding father and respects minority religious traditions.

Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah (1876-1948):

• Founder of Pakistan and first Governor-General
• Visionary leader who transformed the Pakistan Movement into reality
• Advocate for minority rights and religious freedom
• Symbol of national unity and purpose

Christmas celebrations in Pakistan:

• Special church services attended by large congregations
• Family gatherings and festive meals
• Exchange of gifts and greetings
• Community outreach and charitable activities

Is December 26 a Holiday in Pakistan?

December 26, the day after Christmas, has been declared a holiday exclusively for Pakistan’s Christian community. Unlike December 25, which applies to all citizens, this additional day allows Christians to continue celebrations and spend extended time with family.

Applicability of December 26 holiday:

• Only Christian employees may avail this day
• Non-Christian citizens work normal schedules
• Government offices remain open generally
• Private organizations may voluntarily grant leave at discretion

Holiday Classification System: Understanding the Differences

Gazetted vs. Bank Holidays: What’s the Distinction?

Pakistan’s holiday system divides observances into categories with different applicability:

Gazetted Holidays (11 in 2026):

• Mandatory closure for all federal and provincial government offices
• Applicable to autonomous bodies and public corporations
• Observed by most formal private sector organizations
• Educational institutions remain closed
• Notified in the official Gazette of Pakistan

Bank Holidays (3 in 2026):

• Apply only to banking institutions and financial services
• Government offices operate normally
• Schools and colleges remain open
• Private businesses unaffected
• Serve specialized administrative purposes

How Do Optional Holidays Work in Practice?

The optional holiday system allows employees from minority communities to observe their religious festivals without using regular leave. The Cabinet Division notification specifies:

Rules for availing optional holidays:

• Muslim employees may avail one optional holiday annually
• Non-Muslim employees may avail up to three optional holidays per year
• Holidays are denominational and may be allowed at organizational discretion
• Heads of organizations may grant optional holidays provided official work does not suffer
• Employees typically substitute optional holidays for gazetted holidays in leave calculations

Optional holidays for 2026 include:

• Christian: Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Christmas (two days)
• Hindu: Holi, Diwali, Dussehra, Durga Puja, Janmashtami, Shivaratri
• Sikh: Guru Nanak’s Birthday, Baisakhi
• Parsi: Nauroz

Practical Planning Strategies for 2026

How to Create Extended Weekends from Public Holidays

Strategic use of leave days can transform individual holidays into extended breaks:

March 2026 (Four-day automatic break):

• March 20-23 already holiday
• Add March 19 leave for five-day break
• Add March 18-19 leave for seven-day break

May 2026 (Eid-ul-Azha):

• May 27-29 official holidays
• Add May 25-26 leave for seven-day break
• Weekend follows May 30-31

June 2026 (Ashura):

• June 24-25 official holidays
• Add June 26 leave for five-day break
• Preceding weekend June 20-21 creates extended options

August 2026 (Independence Day):

• August 14 Friday creates automatic three-day weekend
• Add August 13 leave for four-day break

December 2026 (Quaid Day/Christmas):

• December 25 Friday creates automatic three-day weekend
• Add December 24 leave for four-day break

What Should Travelers Consider During Holiday Periods?

Travel during Pakistani public holidays requires advance planning:

Transportation considerations:

• Book train and bus tickets 2-3 months before major holidays
• Expect significantly higher fares during Eid periods
• Additional transport services announced for major holidays
• Roads to northern destinations experience heavy congestion

Accommodation tips:

• Reserve hotels well in advance for popular destinations
• Expect premium rates during holiday periods
• Consider alternative destinations to avoid crowds
• Check cancellation policies before booking

Weather factors by season:

• March-April: Pleasant spring weather ideal for travel
• May-June: Increasing heat, northern areas comfortable
• August: Monsoon season in northern regions
• December: Cold in north, mild in south

Frequently Asked Questions

How many public holidays does Pakistan have in 2026?

Pakistan observes 11 gazetted public holidays in 2026, covering national days and major religious festivals. Additionally, three bank holidays apply specifically to financial institutions, and 23 optional holidays serve minority communities, though these apply only to employees from those communities.

Are banks open on Saturday in Pakistan during 2026?

Banks in Pakistan follow a specific Saturday schedule throughout 2026. The first Saturday of each month is a full working day for all banks. All other Saturdays are weekly holidays when banks remain closed. This pattern applies regardless of whether public holidays fall during the week.

Is 5th February a holiday across all of Pakistan?

Yes, Kashmir Day on February 5 is observed as a public holiday throughout Pakistan, including all four provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. All government offices, educational institutions, and banks remain closed nationwide.

Is Benazir Bhutto’s death anniversary a holiday in Sindh in 2026?

December 27, the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, is not a federal public holiday. However, the Sindh provincial government often declares it a holiday within the province, particularly in areas with strong Pakistan Peoples Party support. Check provincial notifications closer to the date for confirmation.

When will the official Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 notification be issued?

The official Eid-ul-Fitr notification for 2026 was issued on March 15, 2026, declaring March 20 and 21 as public holidays. This notification came after astronomical predictions and before the actual moon sighting, allowing citizens to plan while awaiting final confirmation from the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.

If a public holiday falls on Friday, is Saturday also a holiday?

When a public holiday falls on Friday, the following Saturday is not automatically a holiday. Saturday remains either a working day or weekly holiday based on the standard schedule. For example, Independence Day falls on Friday in 2026, giving citizens Friday off, but Saturday remains a normal day unless the individual’s organization normally observes Saturday closure.

Are hospitals open during public holidays in Pakistan?

Hospitals in Pakistan maintain continuous operations during all public holidays. Emergency departments function 24/7 without interruption. Outpatient departments may operate with reduced staff or modified hours, but essential medical services remain fully available regardless of holiday status.

How are working hours adjusted during Ramadan 2026?

During Ramadan 2026 (approximately February 18 to March 19, subject to moon sighting), working hours across Pakistan are reduced by two hours daily. Federal government offices typically operate from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM instead of the standard 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM schedule. Provincial governments and many private organizations adopt similar reductions.

Is December 26 a holiday for everyone in Pakistan?

No, December 26 is a holiday exclusively for Pakistan’s Christian community. While December 25 is a public holiday for all citizens, the following day applies only to Christian employees who wish to avail it as an optional holiday. Non-Christian citizens work normal schedules on December 26.

What is the difference between a gazetted holiday and a bank holiday?

A gazetted holiday is a mandatory public closure for all government offices, educational institutions, and most businesses, officially notified in the Gazette of Pakistan. A bank holiday applies only to banking institutions, allowing them to close for specific administrative purposes while other sectors operate normally. In 2026, bank holidays fall on January 1, February 18, and July 1.