The Government of Pakistan has officially announced nationwide public holidays on June 25 and 26, 2026, in observance of Ashura.
The decision was approved by the federal government and communicated through an official notification issued by the Cabinet Division. The announcement provides clarity for government employees, students, businesses, and the general public regarding the upcoming holiday schedule.
With the holidays falling on Thursday and Friday, many citizens may benefit from an extended weekend depending on their workplace schedule.
Official Notification Issued by Cabinet Division
The Cabinet Division released the official circular from Islamabad on June 22, 2026, confirming public holidays for the 9th and 10th of Muharram 1448 AH.
According to the notification, all federal institutions and government departments will observe holidays on Thursday, June 25, and Friday, June 26, 2026.
Authorities have also directed media organizations and government departments to ensure widespread public awareness of the announcement.
Public Holidays Apply Across Pakistan
The notification has been circulated to federal and provincial authorities to ensure uniform implementation throughout the country.
The holidays will be observed in:
- Punjab
- Sindh
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
- Balochistan
- Islamabad Capital Territory
- Gilgit-Baltistan
- Azad Jammu and Kashmir
This coordinated approach ensures that all public institutions follow the same holiday schedule.
Government Offices to Remain Closed
The public holidays apply to government offices operating under both five-day and six-day work schedules.
Employees working in departments that normally observe weekends on Saturday and Sunday may effectively receive a four-day break from Thursday through Sunday.
Government offices will resume normal operations after the holiday period concludes.
Schools, Colleges and Universities to Observe Holidays
Educational institutions across the country are also expected to remain closed during the Ashura holidays.
Schools, colleges, and universities may issue separate notices regarding examinations, administrative activities, or revised academic schedules.
Students and parents are advised to stay in contact with their respective institutions for any additional updates.
Banking Services During the Holidays
Commercial banks and financial institutions are expected to follow the official holiday schedule.
While physical bank branches will remain closed, customers will continue to have access to:
- ATM services
- Mobile banking applications
- Internet banking platforms
- Digital fund transfers
However, branch-based services and cheque clearing activities may experience temporary delays until normal operations resume.
Individuals and businesses planning significant financial transactions should complete them before the holidays begin.
Traffic and Security Arrangements Expected
Ashura processions are organized in various cities across Pakistan every year, resulting in special security measures and traffic management plans.
Authorities may introduce temporary road closures and alternative traffic routes in major urban centers.
Citizens are encouraged to follow local administration advisories and plan their travel accordingly.
In some sensitive areas, temporary mobile service interruptions may also be implemented as part of security arrangements.
Tips for Citizens Before the Holidays
To avoid inconvenience during the holiday period, residents should consider completing important tasks in advance.
Complete Essential Shopping Early
Purchase groceries and daily-use items before the holidays begin.
Handle Banking Requirements
Withdraw cash and complete urgent banking transactions beforehand.
Monitor Traffic Advisories
Check local traffic updates if you plan to travel during Muharram.
Complete Government-Related Tasks
Public service offices may remain closed until operations resume after the holidays.
Why Ashura Is Observed
Ashura is one of the most significant occasions in the Islamic calendar. It marks the 9th and 10th days of Muharram and is observed across Pakistan through religious gatherings, processions, and commemorative events.
The government traditionally announces public holidays each year to facilitate religious observances and ensure smooth administrative arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are June 25 and June 26, 2026 official public holidays in Pakistan?
Yes. The federal government has officially declared public holidays on both dates for Ashura.
Will government offices remain closed?
Yes. Government departments across Pakistan will observe the holidays.
Are schools and universities closed?
Educational institutions are expected to remain closed during the two-day holiday period.
Will ATMs and online banking continue working?
Yes. Digital banking services and ATM networks are expected to remain operational.
When will offices reopen?
Government offices and institutions will resume operations after the completion of the official holiday period according to their regular schedules.
