Pakistan Announces Official Public Holidays Schedule for 2026
The Government of Pakistan has officially released the complete list of public holidays for the year 2026, enabling citizens, government departments, private organizations, banks, and educational institutions to plan work schedules, travel, and vacations well in advance.
According to the official notification, Pakistan will observe approximately 17 public holidays in 2026, including national days, religious festivals, and special bank or community holidays. The schedule applies nationwide, unless otherwise specified.
Complete List of Official Public Holidays in Pakistan – 2026
Below is the confirmed public holidays calendar for Pakistan (2026):
🇵🇰 National & Religious Holidays
- February 5 (Thursday) – Kashmir Day
- March 21–23 (Saturday to Monday) – Eid ul Fitr*
- March 23 (Monday) – Pakistan Day
- May 1 (Friday) – Labour Day
- May 27–28 – Eid ul Adha*
- May 28 (Thursday) – Youm-e-Takbeer
- June 25–26 – Ashura (9th & 10th Muharram)*
- August 14 (Friday) – Independence Day
- August 25 (Tuesday) – Eid Milad-un-Nabi ﷺ*
- November 9 (Monday) – Iqbal Day
- December 25 (Friday) – Quaid-e-Azam Day & Christmas
- December 26 (Saturday) – Post-Christmas Holiday (for Christian employees only)
*️⃣ Islamic holidays are subject to moon sighting.
Important Note on Moon-Sighting & Date Changes
Authorities have clearly stated that Islamic holidays may shift by one day depending on official moon sighting.
The final dates for Eid and Ashura will be confirmed by the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee closer to each occasion.
Citizens Are Advised To:
- Avoid finalizing travel or leave plans too early
- Follow official government notifications
- Wait for moon-sighting confirmation announcements
Who Does This Holiday Schedule Apply To?
The 2026 public holidays schedule applies to:
✔ Federal & provincial government offices
✔ Banks & financial institutions
✔ Educational institutions
✔ Private sector organizations (as per labor laws)
✔ Courts & public bodies
Some private companies may adjust holidays based on operational requirements.
Why This Holiday Calendar Matters
Having an early and official holiday schedule helps:
- Families plan vacations & family events
- Employees manage annual leave
- Businesses schedule operations & staffing
- Schools plan academic calendars
- Travelers avoid peak congestion
The 2026 calendar offers multiple long weekends, especially around Eid, Independence Day, and December holidays.
Public Advisory
The government has advised:
- Always rely on official notifications
- Ignore unverified social media holiday calendars
- Confirm dates closer to events, especially religious holidays
Final Overview
The Pakistan Public Holidays 2026 schedule provides a clear roadmap for the year, balancing national observances, religious traditions, and workforce needs. While most dates are fixed, Islamic holidays remain provisional until moon sighting confirmation.
Citizens are encouraged to stay updated through official government channels and plan responsibly.
