The federal government has finalised the list of public and optional holidays for 2026, issuing formal guidance to ministries, departments, banks, and private organisations through a notification released by the Cabinet Division. The annual schedule lays out national observances, Islamic religious holidays, and occasions for minority communities, allowing institutions to plan operations well in advance for the coming year. National Public Holidays Several nationally significant days will be observed as public holidays across Pakistan in 2026. These include Kashmir Day on February 5, Pakistan Day on March 23, and Independence Day on August 14. Government offices and most public-sector institutions will remain closed on these occasions. Religious Holidays for Muslims The notification also provides tentative dates for major Islamic festivals, clearly stating that final observance will depend on moon sighting announcements: Eidul Fitr: March 21 to 23 Eidul Azha: May 27 to 29 Ashura (9th and 10th Muharram): June 24 and 25 Eid Miladun Nabi: August 25 Designated Bank Holidays Three days in 2026 have been designated as bank holidays: January 1, February 18 (for Zakat deduction), and July 1. While banking services for the public will be suspended on these dates, bank staff will continue to report for duty as required. Rules for Optional Holidays Under the revised framework, government employees face limits on optional leave. Muslim employees may avail one optional holiday during the year, while non-Muslim employees are allowed up to three. Granting of optional leave will be subject to approval by the relevant head of office, with the condition that essential government work is not disrupted. Export Sector Given Special Exemption Exporters and export-oriented manufacturing units have been exempted from mandatory observance of public holidays. However, the exemption is conditional on employers compensating workers with overtime pay in addition to their regular wages. Officials said the provision aims to protect export momentum while ensuring labour rights remain intact.