Pakistan Announces Three-Day Public Holiday for Eidul Azha

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a three-day public holiday from May 26 to May 28, 2026 ^[1], to mark the festival of Eidul Azha.

The designation of these dates allows millions of citizens to observe one of the most significant religious events in the Islamic calendar. Because the holiday involves extensive travel and livestock markets, the government notification provides the necessary lead time for public and private sectors to coordinate closures.

The federal government in Islamabad issued the notification on Wednesday, May 20 ^[1]. According to the announcement, the public holidays on the occasion of Eidul Azha ^[1] will span three days ^[2]. The specific holiday period is set for May 26-28, 2026 ^[1].

Within this window, the primary observance of Eidul Azha is scheduled for May 27, 2026 ^[1]. The closure of government offices and educational institutions typically accompanies such declarations to facilitate the religious rites, and family gatherings associated with the holiday.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the dates were designated as "public holidays on the occasion of Eidul Azha" ^[1]. The decision ensures that the federal administration and the general public can participate in the traditional sacrifices and prayers that define the festival.

While the federal government has set these dates, provincial governments typically align their schedules with the federal notification to maintain national uniformity during the festive period. This coordination helps manage the logistical challenges of a nationwide holiday, including the movement of people and goods across provincial borders.