ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has officially declared March 20 and 21 (Friday and Saturday) as public holidays across Pakistan to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, according to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division on Sunday.
The notification serves as a continuation of the earlier holiday circular from January 19.
“In continuation of Cabinet Division’s circular dated 19 January 2026 specifying public and optional holidays for the year 2026, the Prime Minister has been pleased to declare 20th and 21st March (Friday and Saturday) as public holidays on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, both for offices observing 5 days and 6 days working weeks,” read the notification.
The decision ensures a unified break for all government employees, applying to offices that observe both five-day and six-day working weeks.
The Sunday’s notification effectively declares a four-day long weekend for the nation.
Eid-ul-Fitr holidays
March 20 (Friday): Eid-ul-Fitr Holiday
March 21 (Saturday): Eid-ul-Fitr Holiday
March 22 (Sunday): Weekly Holiday
March 23 (Monday): Pakistan Day (Public Holiday)
While the government has declared these holidays, the official start of Eid depends on the sighting of the Shawwal moon.
Suparco and Pakistan Metrological Department suggest that Ramazan is likely to complete 30 days this year, with Eid-ul-Fitr expected to fall on March 21, Saturday.
The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will meet in Islamabad on March 19 to make the final official announcement regarding the moon sighting.
Despite the nationwide closures, essential services would remain operational to avoid public inconvenience during the festive period.
