Government Issues Ashura Holidays Notification for June 2026

Islamabad: The federal government has issued a notification confirming public holidays on June 25 and June 26, 2026, for the observance of 9th and 10th Muharram (Ashura) across Pakistan. The announcement follows the official commencement of Muharram 1448 AH on June 17, 2026, after the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee confirmed that the Muharram moon was not sighted on June 15.

According to the revised schedule, Thursday, June 25, and Friday, June 26, will be observed as public holidays nationwide. The dates replace the tentative Ashura holidays that were previously expected to fall on June 24 and June 25 under the annual public holidays calendar issued earlier this year.

The change became necessary after the official moon-sighting decision shifted the start of Muharram by one day. As a result, the 9th and 10th of Muharram now correspond to June 25 and June 26, respectively.

Government offices, educational institutions, and many public-sector organizations are expected to remain closed during the two-day holiday period. Banks and other services may also operate on revised schedules in accordance with federal and provincial directives.

Authorities across the country are finalizing security and traffic management plans for Muharram processions, majalis, and other religious gatherings. Additional law enforcement personnel are expected to be deployed in major cities to ensure the peaceful observance of Ashura.

Ashura, observed on the 10th of Muharram, commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions in the Battle of Karbala. The occasion is marked by religious gatherings, mourning processions, and special prayers across Pakistan.

Holiday Schedule

 

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