The government has officially announced a public holiday on 26 December 2025 (Friday) for the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT). This decision was shared through a formal notification issued by the Office of the District Magistrate, Islamabad. The announcement has brought relief to many people who were planning work, travel, or family activities at the end of December.
According to the notification, the holiday will be observed within the revenue limits of Islamabad Capital Territory. This means that offices and institutions located in Islamabad will remain closed on this day, except for departments providing essential services.
Who Announced the Holiday?
The holiday notification was issued with the approval of the District Magistrate, ICT. The official document was signed by Sahibzada Muhammad Yousaf (PAS), who is serving as the Additional District Magistrate, Islamabad. The notification was dated 24 December 2025, giving citizens advance notice to plan their activities accordingly.
Such announcements are usually made to facilitate the public, especially during special occasions, public interest events, or important days recognized by the government.
Date and Day of the Holiday
- Date: 26 December 2025
- Day: Friday
- Type: Local Public Holiday
- Area: Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT)
Since the holiday falls on a Friday, many people will enjoy a longer weekend, which is helpful for rest, family gatherings, and short trips.
Offices That Will Remain Closed
On 26 December 2025, most government offices, educational institutions, and public departments in Islamabad will remain closed. Employees working in non-essential departments will not be required to report to duty.
This closure includes offices related to administration, education, and other routine public services operating under the ICT administration.
Essential Services Will Remain Open
While the holiday applies to most offices, the government has clearly stated that essential services will continue to operate normally. These departments are exempted from the holiday to ensure that public needs are met without disruption.
The following services will remain open:
- MCI (Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad)
- CDA (Capital Development Authority)
- ICT Administration
- ICT Police
- IESCO (Islamabad Electric Supply Company)
- SNGPL (Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited)
- Hospitals and emergency health services
These departments are crucial for maintaining law and order, electricity and gas supply, healthcare, and city management. Citizens can continue to access these services as usual.
Instructions to Government Departments
The notification was circulated to several important offices and departments to ensure smooth implementation of the holiday. These include ministries, police offices, education departments, media authorities, and regulatory bodies.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and PEMRA were also requested to publish and broadcast the notification widely, so that people across Islamabad are properly informed.
Impact on Schools and Colleges
Most schools, colleges, and educational institutions located in Islamabad are expected to remain closed on 26 December 2025. However, students and parents are advised to confirm with their respective institutions, especially private schools, as some may follow independent schedules.
Government-run educational institutions under the Federal Directorate of Education will observe the holiday.
Public Reaction and Convenience
The announcement of a public holiday has been welcomed by citizens. Many employees see this as an opportunity to rest after a busy work schedule. Families are also planning to spend quality time together, while some people are arranging short trips or social visits.
A public holiday near the end of the year also helps people manage stress and prepare for upcoming responsibilities in the new year.
Important Advice for Citizens
Citizens are advised to:
- Plan official work accordingly
- Visit government offices before or after the holiday
- Use online services where available
- Contact essential service departments in case of emergencies
People working in essential services should follow their department instructions and duty schedules.
Conclusion
The public holiday announced on 26 December 2025 is an important decision by the Islamabad administration to facilitate citizens. While most government offices will remain closed, essential services will continue to function to ensure public convenience and safety.
Residents of Islamabad should take note of this announcement, plan their activities wisely, and enjoy the break responsibly. For official updates, citizens are encouraged to follow government notifications and trusted news sources.