TODAY’S PAPER | August 21, 2026 | EPAPER

Govt declares public holiday for Eid Miladun Nabi on Aug 26

Citizens to celebrate the birth of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) across Pakistan


Web Desk August 21, 2026 1 min read
Strings of bright lights illuminate a mosque in Karachi ahead of Eid Miladun Nabi. PHOTO: ONLINE/ File

The government has declared August 26, 2026 (Wednesday), as a public holiday on the occasion of Eid Miladun-Nabi, according to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division on Friday.

The notification said the decision was taken in continuation of the Cabinet Division’s circular regarding public and optional holidays for 2026.

“It is notified that the prime minister has been pleased to declare August 26, 2026 (Wednesday) as a public holiday on the occasion of Eid Milad-un-Nabi (12th Rabiul-Awwal 1448 AH),” the notification said.

Muslims around the world celebrate the birth of the Holy Prophet (PBUH), locally known as Eid Miladun-Nabi, on the 12th of Rabiul Awwal.

Read: Govt announces public and optional holidays for 2026

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.

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