Govt shares schedule for 2026 public holidays

ISLAMABAD: The federal Cabinet Division has officially released the schedule of public holidays to be observed across Pakistan in 2026.

According to the notification, the first major public holiday of the year will be Kashmir Day on February 5. Another important national holiday, Pakistan Day, commemorating the Lahore Resolution of 1940, will be observed on March 23. The schedule also confirms August 14 as a public holiday to mark Independence Day.

The circular further outlines bank holidays on January 1, July 1, and February 18, the latter designated for Zakat deduction. On these dates, banks will remain closed for public dealings, while employees will continue to perform official duties.

The notification also includes a complete list of religious holidays for Muslims and minority communities. Major Islamic festivals in 2026 include Eid al-Fitr on March 21, 22, and 23, Eid al-Adha on May 27, 28, and 29, Ashura on June 24 and 25, and Eid al-Milad on August 25.

The schedule highlights limitations on optional holidays as well. Muslim employees are entitled to one optional holiday per year, while non-Muslim employees may avail up to three optional holidays, subject to approval by the Head of the Organisation to ensure the continuity of essential services.