PESHAWAR: Pakistan’s tentative schedule of public holidays for 2026 has been released, with authorities noting that some dates may be subject to change depending on the sighting of the moon and official notifications.
According to the schedule, the first public holiday of the year is expected to fall on February 5 in observance of Kashmir Day. Eid-ul-Fitr holidays are tentatively scheduled from March 21 to 23.
Other major public holidays include Labour Day on May 1 and Youm-e-Takbeer on May 28. Eid-ul-Adha holidays are expected to begin on May 27 and continue for three days. Ashura is set to be observed on June 25 and 26.
Independence Day will be marked on August 14, followed by Eid Milad-un-Nabi on August 26. Youm-e-Iqbal will be observed on November 9, while Quaid-e-Azam Day and Christmas will be marked later in the year, with December 26 reserved as a holiday for Christian employees.
Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates has also announced its tentative public holiday schedule for 2026. The UAE calendar includes 12 public holidays, beginning with New Year’s Day on January 1.
The UAE holidays also feature three days of Eid-ul-Fitr, Youm Arafat on 9 Dhu al-Hijjah, followed by three days of Eid-ul-Adha. Other holidays include the Islamic New Year on 1 Muharram, Eid Milad-un-Nabi on 12 Rabi-ul-Awal, and UAE National Day from December 2 to 3.
Both countries have clarified that the final dates of Islamic holidays will be confirmed closer to the time, subject to official announcements.
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