ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): The commencement of Muharram-ul-Haram 1448 Hijri has led to the expectation of two public holidays at the close of the ongoing month in Pakistan.
Alongside the normal Saturday and Sunday off periods, the specific closure dates at the close of the month will be determined once the Muharram moon is sighted by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.
Preliminary astronomical predictions by experts say that Ashura (9 th and 10 th Muharram) will likely fall on June 25th and 26th of 2026. Traditionally, two holidays are granted for both dates by the Government of Pakistan, during which all public and private sector offices and banking services, along with educational institutions, will be shut across the country.
A SUPARCO spokesperson said that it is extremely unlikely for the Muharram moon to be seen on June 15th, and it is anticipated that the month of Zilhajj 1447 Hijri will indeed go on for 30 days. Astronomically, the first day of Muharram-ul-Haram 1448 Hijri is expected to begin on June 17 th, 2026 (Wednesday).
If Muharram commences on the 17 the, then 10 th Muharram, or Ashura, will likely be on Friday, June 26th, 2026; however, final confirmation on the beginning of Muharram will be announced once the decision of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is made. After confirmation of the moon sighting, a notification of the nationwide holidays for the 9 th and 10 th of Muharram will be issued by the federal government.
