The Pakistan Eid Holidays have been officially confirmed by the federal government, sparking a nationwide 4-day long weekend starting this Friday. According to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division on Sunday, the Prime Minister has approved public holidays for March 20 and March 21 (Friday and Saturday) to mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
Federal Cabinet Confirms Pakistan Eid Holidays Schedule
The strategic placement of these dates creates a continuous break for the public sector. Because March 22 falls on a Sunday and March 23 is already a national holiday for Pakistan Day, the official Pakistan Eid Holidays effectively extend to a four-day period for most government employees.
- Friday, March 20: Public Holiday (Eid ul Fitr)
- Saturday, March 21: Public Holiday (Eid ul Fitr)
- Sunday, March 22: Weekly Holiday
- Monday, March 23: Pakistan Day (National Holiday)
SUPARCO Moon Sighting Forecast
While the government has set the administrative calendar, the religious start of Shawwal depends on the lunar cycle. The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) reports that the new moon will be born on the morning of March 19.
Experts suggest that because the moon’s age will be approximately 12 hours and 41 minutes at sunset on the 19th, it is highly likely that Pakistan will complete a 30-day Ramadan, placing Eid ul Fitr on Saturday, March 21, 2026.
Impact on Five and Six-Day Work Weeks
The notification clarifies that the Pakistan Eid Holidays apply to all federal offices, regardless of whether they observe a five-day or six-day work week. Final religious confirmation remains under the jurisdiction of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, which will meet on the evening of the 29th of Ramadan to sight the crescent.
Key Facts for Commuters and Employees
- Total Days Off: 4 consecutive days (Friday through Monday).
- Banks & Markets: Most financial institutions will remain closed during the notified period.
- Resumption: Offices are expected to resume full operations on Tuesday, March 24.
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