Govt announces public and optional holidays for 2026

Exporters, export manufacturers are granted an exemption from these holidays

The Government of Pakistan has officially released the schedule for public and optional holidays for the calendar year 2026, according to a circular issued by the Cabinet Division on Monday.

The notification outlines a comprehensive list of national significance days and religious festivals for Muslims and minority communities. Key public holidays include Kashmir Day on February 5, Pakistan Day on March 23, and Independence Day on August 14

Major Islamic festivals are scheduled as follows, though the government noted these dates are subject to the appearance of the moon:

• Eidul Fitr: March 21, 22, and 23.
• Eidul Azha: May 27, 28, and 29.
• Ashura (9th and 10th Muharram): June 24 and 25.
• Eid Miladun Nabi: August 25.

The circular also identifies specific bank holidays on January 1, July 1, and February 18 (the latter for Zakat deduction). While banks will remain closed to the public on these dates, they will stay open for employees.

Under the 2026 regulations, government servants are restricted in the number of optional holidays they may claim. Muslim employees are entitled to one optional holiday per year, while non-Muslim employees may take up to three. These are granted at the discretion of the Head of the Organisation, ensuring that essential work continues without dislocation.

Exporters and export manufacturers are granted an exemption from these holidays, provided they compensate their staff with overtime pay in addition to regular wages.