ISLAMABAD: The Government of Pakistan has released the official schedule of public and optional holidays for 2026, according to a circular issued by the Cabinet Division on Monday.
Key public holidays include Kashmir Day (February 5), Pakistan Day (March 23), and Independence Day (August 14).
Major Islamic festivals, subject to moon sightings, are Eidul Fitr (March 21–23), Eidul Azha (May 27–29), Ashura (June 24–25), and Eid Miladun Nabi (August 25). Bank holidays are set for January 1, February 18 (for Zakat deduction), and July 1, though banks will remain open for employees.
Under the new rules, Muslim government employees can take one optional holiday per year, while non-Muslims may claim up to three, at the discretion of their organization heads. Exporters and export manufacturers are exempted from these holidays if they compensate staff with overtime pay in addition to regular wages.
This schedule provides clarity for both public servants and private sector workers while ensuring essential services continue uninterrupted.
