Ashura Holidays in Pakistan Confirmed: Two Public Holidays on June 25 & 26

Pakistan is set to observe two public holidays on Thursday, June 25, and Friday, June 26, 2026, on account of 9th and 10th Muharram (Ashura) after the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee announced that the Muharram moon was not sighted in the country. Consequently, 1st Muharram 1448 AH will begin on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, while Youm-e-Ashura will be observed on Friday, June 26.

The announcement was made by Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Chairman Maulana Syed Muhammad Abdul Khabir Azad following a meeting in Lahore. Since no credible moon-sighting reports were received from any part of the country, the month of Dhul Hijjah completed 30 days.

With the Ashura dates now confirmed, public holidays are expected to be observed nationwide on June 25 (9th Muharram) and June 26 (10th Muharram). Government offices, educational institutions, banks, and many private organizations traditionally remain closed during these days to facilitate religious observances and security arrangements.

Provincial governments and law enforcement agencies have also begun finalizing security plans for Muharram processions and majalis across the country. Special measures are expected to ensure peaceful observance of the sacred month, particularly on the 9th and 10th of Muharram.

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and holds great significance for Muslims worldwide. The 10th of Muharram, known as Youm-e-Ashura, commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain and his companions in the Battle of Karbala