The federal government has declared public holidays on June 25 and 26, 2026, on the occasion of Ashura Day, after which government offices and several institutions across the country will remain closed for two days. The Sindh government has also issued a public holiday notification across the province in this regard.
A statement issued by the Cabinet Secretariat said that Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has approved declaring 9th and 10th Muharram as public holidays. Federal institutions will remain closed on these dates, while essential services will continue as usual.
According to the Sindh government notification, all government offices, autonomous and semi-autonomous institutions, local councils and government corporations across the province will remain closed on June 25 and 26. However, institutions providing health, emergency relief and other essential services will continue their normal activities.
Ashura Day is an important day in Islamic history that is celebrated in memory of the incident of Karbala. On the tenth day of Muharram, the great sacrifices of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his martyred companions are paid homage. This is why Muslims all over the world organize special religious ceremonies, gatherings and processions on this occasion.
In Pakistan, mourning gatherings are also held in various cities during Muharram. On this occasion, the federal and provincial governments make special security arrangements to provide a safe environment to the participants of the processions and gatherings.
According to administrative sources, law enforcement agencies are being instructed to increase surveillance of sensitive places and maintain law and order. Traffic plans are being prepared in several cities, while rescue and medical personnel will also be kept on alert.
Religious leaders have appealed to the public to demonstrate patience, tolerance and interfaith harmony during Muharram. They say that the Karbala incident carries a message of truth, justice and sacrifice for all humanity.
After the announcement of the holidays, government employees, students and people from other walks of life will get a two-day break, while special arrangements will be made across the country due to religious activities during Muharram. The government says that all necessary measures will be taken to protect the lives and property of the people and ensure a peaceful environment.
