The federal government has announced spring holidays for all federal educational institutions in Islamabad, giving students and staff a short break ahead of the Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations. According to an official notification, schools and colleges under the federal education system will remain closed from March 24 to March 27, 2026. Classes will resume on March 30 after the holidays. Authorities said the decision was taken to align the spring break with the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays, allowing students and teachers to enjoy a longer festive break. The move applies to all institutions operating under the Federal Directorate of Education (FDE) in the Islamabad Capital Territory. Extended Break for Students and Teachers Officials explained that synchronizing spring holidays with Eid celebrations helps students spend more time with their families during the festive period. The break will provide an opportunity for students to rest after the academic schedule and prepare for upcoming examinations and academic activities. CamScanner-03-06-2026-09-42-OK7DqGAeUi by Fahim Patel The holiday schedule will cover all federal government schools and colleges in the capital. Educational institutions will reopen on Monday, March 30, when regular academic activities will resume. Holiday Decisions Often Linked to Academic Calendar Education authorities in Pakistan usually structure holidays according to the academic calendar and major religious events. Breaks such as winter vacations, Eid holidays, and spring holidays are scheduled throughout the year to maintain a balanced academic routine. For instance, winter vacations in Islamabad’s federal schools were previously observed from December 26 to January 3, after which classes resumed in early January. Such planned breaks allow schools to manage teaching schedules while also accommodating seasonal conditions and national holidays. Importance of Scheduled School Breaks Education experts say short breaks during the academic year can help students maintain focus and improve overall performance. Holidays give students time to relax and recharge before returning to their studies. For many families, aligning school holidays with major festivals such as Eid also makes travel and family gatherings easier. With the spring holidays now confirmed, students in Islamabad can look forward to a short break before classes resume at the end of March.
TPL Corp Signs Deal to Sell TPL Insurance to Jazz International
Pakistan’s technology and services group TPL Corp has signed a Share Purchase Agreement with Jazz International Holding Limited for the sale of its subsidiary TPL Insurance Limited, marking a significant development in the country’s insurance and financial services industry. The agreement was approved by the board of TPL Corp during a meeting held on December 17, 2025 and was later disclosed through a notice submitted to the Pakistan Stock Exchange. The company confirmed that the transaction will proceed once all necessary regulatory and legal approvals are obtained. The deal is expected to transfer shares and control of TPL Insurance to Jazz International, strengthening the presence of telecom backed digital companies in Pakistan’s financial services sector. Deal Follows Earlier Approval in 2025 The latest agreement follows an earlier in-principle approval announced in September 2025 when TPL Corp indicated that a strategic investor could acquire shares and control of its insurance subsidiary. Initially, the potential buyer was identified as VEON Group Holding Company Ltd or its affiliates. However, an addendum later confirmed Jazz International Holding Limited as the final acquiring entity. The announcement was made by Arif Habib Limited, which is acting as the manager to the offer in the transaction. Jazz International is part of the global telecom group VEON Ltd, a Nasdaq listed digital operator headquartered in Dubai that operates across several emerging markets. Ownership Structure of TPL Insurance TPL Insurance is a subsidiary of TPL Corp, which currently holds a majority stake of 52.87 percent in the company. Other major shareholders include the Finnish Fund for Industrial Cooperation with 17.02 percent and Entwicklungsgesellschaft MBH with 15.87 percent ownership. The insurer has a paid-up capital of 198.39 million shares and reported total assets of around Rs8.46 billion as of June 2025. Shareholders’ equity stood at approximately Rs2.68 billion. Financial disclosures also indicated that the company recorded a loss of Rs12 million during the first half of 2025, compared with a profit of Rs72 million in the previous year. Expansion of Digital and Financial Services Analysts view the acquisition as part of a broader strategy by telecom companies to expand beyond traditional connectivity services into financial technology and digital ecosystems. VEON already has a strong presence in Pakistan through Pakistan Mobile Communications Limited, which operates under the brand Jazz and serves more than 70 million mobile subscribers across the country. By entering the insurance sector through the acquisition of TPL Insurance, Jazz International could integrate insurance products into its digital platforms and mobile services. Industry experts say such cross-sector collaborations are becoming more common as telecom companies leverage their large customer bases to offer financial services including payments, insurance and lending. Next Steps and Regulatory Approval Despite the board’s approval and the signing of the Share Purchase Agreement, the transaction is not yet complete. The acquisition will only be finalized after securing all necessary approvals from regulators and authorities under applicable laws. TPL Corp has stated that it will continue to update shareholders as the process moves forward and further developments occur. If completed, the deal could reshape Pakistan’s insurance landscape by bringing one of the country’s largest telecom backed digital groups into the sector.
Pakistan Considers Four-Day Workweek Amid Fuel Crisis Fears
Pakistan’s government is considering introducing a four-day workweek with reduced office hours as part of emergency energy conservation measures amid fears of fuel supply disruptions linked to the crisis in the Middle East. The proposal was discussed during a meeting of a special committee monitoring petroleum supplies chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb. Officials said the committee examined several options to reduce the consumption of petrol, diesel and liquefied natural gas as global prices surge due to tensions in the Gulf region. The move comes as disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz threaten global oil shipments and create uncertainty about future supply. The committee is expected to present its recommendations to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif before a final decision is taken by the Economic Coordination Committee of the cabinet. Online Schooling Also Under Consideration Alongside the shorter workweek, officials are considering shifting educational institutions to virtual learning, similar to the arrangements used during the Covid-19 pandemic. The aim is to reduce daily commuting and lower fuel consumption nationwide. Government officials said the committee discussed nearly a dozen conservation proposals. These measures are designed to reduce demand for petroleum products if supply pressures worsen. However, members of the committee were divided over how quickly such steps should be implemented. Some officials warned that aggressive measures such as reduced working days could create panic among the public and trigger unnecessary fuel hoarding. Others argued that delaying action could reduce national reserves if supply disruptions intensify. National Fuel Stocks Under Pressure Pakistan currently holds petroleum reserves sufficient for roughly 25 to 28 days of national consumption, according to officials briefed during the meeting. Two crude oil cargoes have already been delayed due to shipping disruptions in the Gulf. The government is therefore exploring alternative supply routes and negotiating with regional partners to maintain imports. Authorities said discussions are ongoing with energy suppliers in Saudi Arabia, Oman and the United Arab Emirates to secure additional crude shipments and maintain existing supply arrangements. Officials from Pakistan State Oil and domestic refineries are also coordinating with foreign suppliers to ensure uninterrupted fuel availability. Government Plans to Prevent Hoarding The government has simultaneously ordered provincial administrations to conduct inspections of petrol stations and storage facilities to prevent illegal hoarding and profiteering. Authorities say strict monitoring will help maintain stable fuel distribution and prevent panic buying during the ongoing crisis. Officials stressed that there is currently no immediate shortage of petroleum products and urged consumers to avoid unnecessary stockpiling. Rising Global Energy Prices Add Pressure Energy experts say Pakistan could face higher fuel costs even if supplies remain stable. The committee was informed that the price of an LNG cargo has already surged to about $70 million compared with around $30 million before the conflict. If global energy volatility continues, authorities may consider shifting petroleum price reviews from a fortnightly system to weekly adjustments to better reflect market changes. Despite the uncertainty, the government says its priority remains ensuring uninterrupted fuel availability while managing consumption efficiently through conservation measures.
Messi Reacts as Trump Praises Cristiano Ronaldo at White House
A light-hearted but slightly awkward moment unfolded at the White House when Lionel Messi reacted to remarks by Donald Trump praising Cristiano Ronaldo during a ceremony honoring Inter Miami CF. The event celebrated Inter Miami’s victory in the 2025 Major League Soccer Cup and brought the Argentine superstar face to face with the US president. During his speech, Trump welcomed Messi to the White House and highlighted the impact the football icon has had since joining the American club in 2023. The president praised Messi’s achievements but also mentioned Ronaldo while speaking about the long-running debate over who is the greatest footballer of the modern era. Trump said his son Barron admired both players and told Messi: “He’s a tremendous fan of yours, as well as a gentleman named Ronaldo. Cristiano is great.” Messi appeared to take the remark in good humor, smiling during the exchange as the Inter Miami squad stood behind him. The moment quickly went viral online, reigniting the famous rivalry between Messi and Ronaldo among football fans worldwide. A Rivalry That Has Defined Modern Football The Messi versus Ronaldo debate has divided football supporters for nearly two decades. Both players dominated world football during their peak years in Spain’s La Liga, where Messi played for FC Barcelona and Ronaldo represented Real Madrid. Donald Trump: “Lionel Messi is here” My son said: ‘DAD, DO YOU KNOW WHO’S GOING TO BE HERE TODAY?’ I told him: ‘No, I have a lot of things to do…’” Look at Messi’s reaction when Trump said Ronaldo😭 pic.twitter.com/9Wxh2stcmd — Miss ADEL🦋🦚🌹 (@a_derll) March 5, 2026 Their rivalry saw them compete for numerous titles and individual awards, including the Ballon d’Or. Messi is widely admired for his dribbling, creativity and playmaking ability, while Ronaldo is known for his physical strength, athleticism and prolific goal scoring. The two superstars pushed each other to historic heights and became the defining figures of their generation. Messi’s Continued Success in the United States Messi’s visit to Washington came after a successful period with Inter Miami. The Argentine legend played a crucial role in the club’s 2025 MLS Cup triumph and was named the league’s Most Valuable Player for the second consecutive season. According to Trump, Messi recently claimed the 47th trophy of his career, making him one of the most decorated footballers in history. The president praised the player for choosing to continue his career in the United States instead of joining other global clubs. Trump told Messi: “You could have gone anywhere in the world, any team in the world, and you chose Miami.” Messi’s arrival in Major League Soccer in 2023 significantly boosted the league’s global popularity, increasing ticket sales, television audiences and sponsorship deals. Trump Also Mentions Football Legend Pelé During the speech, Trump also brought up Brazilian football legend Pelé, another figure often included in debates about the greatest football player of all time. The president jokingly suggested that Messi might even surpass the Brazilian icon, saying he had watched Pelé play but that Messi might be better. The comments added another layer to the already passionate discussion among football fans about the sport’s greatest players. Ronaldo’s Own White House Connection Cristiano Ronaldo has also had interactions with Trump in the past. The Portuguese star attended a White House dinner in 2025 and has previously expressed admiration for the US president. Trump has also publicly praised Ronaldo in social media messages, even calling him the “greatest of all time” in a video that attracted widespread attention online. The moment involving Messi at the White House therefore highlighted not only the long-standing football rivalry but also the global cultural impact of both players. Debate That Shows No Signs of Ending Despite countless comparisons between the two legends, the debate over Messi and Ronaldo continues to divide football fans across the world. For many supporters, the rivalry represents one of the greatest eras in the history of the sport. Trump’s playful comment during the White House ceremony simply reminded fans that even presidents cannot resist weighing in on football’s most famous debate.
Dubai’s Super-Rich Pay $200,000 to Escape Gulf War
Dubai’s reputation as one of the world’s safest luxury hubs is facing a serious test as regional conflict spreads across the Gulf. With tensions escalating in the Middle East, many of the city’s wealthiest residents are paying enormous sums to leave the United Arab Emirates as quickly as possible. According to reports, wealthy residents are paying as much as $200,000 for private evacuation flights as commercial aviation remains limited due to partial airspace closures. The exodus highlights growing anxiety among expatriates and high-net-worth individuals who have long viewed Dubai as a safe haven for business, investment and luxury living. War Reaches the Gulf The sudden rush to leave comes amid the widening conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel. Iran has launched retaliatory attacks across the Gulf region after military strikes targeted its facilities earlier in the crisis. Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have reported that the country has been targeted by hundreds of drones and missiles as part of Iran’s campaign against US bases and regional allies. Some attacks have reportedly damaged infrastructure and sparked fires in parts of the country, raising fears that the conflict could escalate further. For many residents, these developments have shattered the perception that the UAE would remain insulated from regional tensions. Families Choosing to Leave Early Among those leaving are expatriate families who fear that the situation could worsen if the conflict continues. One resident described how the sound of missile interceptions prompted her family to leave immediately. She said her family decided to depart after witnessing the aftermath of a strike near their neighbourhood. “When we saw the fire, we said OK, it’s time to go,” she explained. The family is reportedly paying $200,000 for a private flight from Oman to Geneva, choosing to wait out the conflict in Europe. To reach the departure point in Oman, they first drove for six hours across the desert. Many wealthy residents believe that leaving early may become the only option if the war expands further across the region. Private Aviation Demand Surges With commercial flights limited and regional airspace partially restricted, private aviation companies are experiencing a sharp surge in demand. Glenn Phillips, PR and advertising manager for Air Charter Service, confirmed that requests for private jet evacuations have increased significantly. He said, “Demand is definitely increasing.” However, even private jet operators are cautious due to security risks. Aviation companies are carefully evaluating routes and airspace safety before accepting flights. Industry insiders warn that available aircraft could soon become scarce if the conflict drags on. Escape Routes Through Oman Many residents are travelling by road to neighbouring Oman, where evacuation flights are easier to arrange. The route has quickly become the most common escape corridor for those trying to leave the UAE. However, congestion at the UAE-Oman border has caused delays, with travellers reportedly waiting several hours to cross. Luxury transportation services in Dubai say demand for private cars leaving the country has also surged, particularly among wealthy Western nationals. Dubai’s Safe Haven Image Tested For decades, Dubai has marketed itself as a secure business and tourism hub in a volatile region. Its tax-friendly policies, luxury lifestyle and political stability attracted wealthy investors and expatriates from around the world. The current conflict is now testing that reputation. Analysts say the crisis demonstrates how geopolitical tensions in the Middle East can quickly affect even the region’s most stable cities. While authorities continue to maintain security and essential services, uncertainty about the conflict’s trajectory is prompting many wealthy residents to take precautionary steps and leave the region until the situation stabilizes.
Illegal Petrol Hoarding Will Lead to Premises Being Sealed: OGRA
Pakistan’s energy regulator has issued a strong warning against illegal hoarding of petroleum products as concerns grow over fuel supply disruptions linked to the ongoing Middle East crisis. Authorities say strict action will be taken against individuals or businesses attempting to store fuel illegally to create artificial shortages and profit from rising prices. The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority said any premises involved in the unauthorized storage of petroleum products would be sealed immediately. Officials emphasized that hoarding at locations other than licensed oil depots and retail outlets of Oil Marketing Companies is illegal and punishable under the law. A spokesperson for the authority warned that authorities would not tolerate attempts to manipulate the fuel market during the current geopolitical uncertainty. Adequate Fuel Stocks Available in Pakistan Despite fears of a fuel shortage, OGRA assured the public that the country currently holds sufficient stocks of petroleum products to meet national demand. The regulator said the existing stock position remains stable and well within required limits. Officials urged citizens not to panic or engage in unnecessary buying of fuel. They stressed that normal consumption patterns should continue and that the supply chain is being closely monitored. The warning comes as reports emerged that some traders might attempt to hoard fuel in anticipation of price increases or supply disruptions. Inspections Ordered Across the Country To curb illegal practices, OGRA has requested all provincial chief secretaries to direct deputy commissioners to conduct inspections across their jurisdictions. Authorities will check petrol pumps, oil depots and storage facilities to ensure that fuel is being stored and distributed legally. OGRA teams are also actively monitoring the supply chain and conducting field inspections to ensure smooth distribution of petroleum products across the country. These checks are aimed at preventing malpractice and maintaining stability in the fuel market. The regulator also instructed oil marketing companies to maintain uninterrupted supply and smooth distribution of petrol and high speed diesel through their retail networks nationwide. Crisis Linked to Middle East Conflict The government’s warning comes amid global energy uncertainty triggered by escalating tensions between Iran, the United States and Israel. The conflict has disrupted shipping routes in the Gulf region after Iran halted oil and gas shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy corridors. A significant portion of global oil supplies normally passes through this strategic waterway, making it a vital route for international energy trade. Disruptions in tanker traffic have raised concerns about fuel availability and price volatility in many countries that rely on Middle Eastern oil imports. Pakistan imports a large share of its crude oil from the Gulf region, making the stability of shipping routes particularly important for its energy security. Government Monitoring Energy Situation To manage potential risks, the federal government has established a committee to monitor petroleum supplies and price movements in light of the evolving regional situation. Authorities are reviewing supply chains, assessing market stability and preparing contingency measures if the crisis continues. Officials say ensuring uninterrupted availability of petroleum products remains a top priority. The government has reassured the public that it will take all necessary steps to maintain stable supplies and prevent exploitation of consumers. Energy experts say strong monitoring and strict enforcement of regulations will be crucial to prevent market manipulation and maintain confidence during the uncertain period.
