Govt Declares Nationwide Holiday for Eid Milad-un-Nabi in Pakistan

The federal government of Pakistan has officially declared Saturday, September 6, 2025, a nationwide public holiday in observance of Eid Milad-un-Nabi (12th Rabi-ul-Awwal), commemorating the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The announcement was made through a formal notification issued by the Cabinet Division and will apply to all federal government offices, departments, and institutions. In addition to the federal holiday, the Sindh government has announced an extended two-day holiday on Friday and Saturday, September 5 and 6, allowing provincial employees and institutions additional time to observe the religious occasion. According to the notification from Sindh’s Services, General Administration and Coordination Department, all provincial government offices, local councils, and educational institutions will remain closed. However, essential services such as flood relief operations, emergency departments, and other critical staff will continue to function during this period.

This year, the observance of Eid Milad-un-Nabi falls on the same day as Pakistan’s Defence Day, which is annually commemorated on September 6 to honor the sacrifices of the country’s armed forces. While both events carry national significance, the overlap may lead to adjustments in ceremonial observances, as religious processions and government functions coincide. The date for Eid Milad-un-Nabi was confirmed following the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee's announcement that the crescent moon for Rabi-ul-Awwal was sighted, placing the 12th of the Islamic month on Saturday. This aligns with the 2025 official public holiday calendar released earlier by the federal government, which had tentatively listed September 6 as the likely date.

Eid Milad-un-Nabi is a deeply significant day for Muslims across Pakistan, marked by religious gatherings, naats, sermons, and decorative processions. Cities and towns are often illuminated with lights and banners, and charitable activities are also carried out in remembrance of the Prophet's teachings. With the extended holiday in Sindh and a nationwide break on Saturday, many citizens are expected to participate in public celebrations, while security and traffic arrangements are likely to be stepped up in major urban centers. Citizens are advised to follow official updates regarding public events and service schedules, especially due to the overlap with Defence Day activities.