Eid al-Adha in Pakistan
Eid al-Adha, also called Eid-ul-Azha in Pakistan, is a public holiday linked to the Islamic month of Zil Hajj. The holiday’s date is set after the moon is sighted and announced by Pakistan’s Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.[1][2]
Meaning and place in Pakistan
Eid al-Adha recalls the story of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to obey God through sacrifice. Pakistan’s government describes the occasion as a time to reflect on faith, compassion, unity and care for people in need.[3]
The festival is observed by Muslims around the world and is associated with Hajj. In Pakistan, its date follows the country’s official moon-sighting announcement rather than a fixed Gregorian calendar date.[2][4]
Prayer, sacrifice and sharing
The day commonly begins with congregational Eid prayers at mosques, Eidgahs and open grounds. After prayers, many people perform Qurbani, the ritual sacrifice of an animal in remembrance of Ibrahim. Practices can vary between households and communities.[4]
Sharing Qurbani meat with relatives and people in need is a prominent part of the observance in Pakistan. Government messages also connect the festival with charity and compassion for less privileged people.[3][4]
Public holiday and practical arrangements
The Cabinet Division lists Eid-ul-Azha among Pakistan’s public holidays and issues holiday notices. The length and dates of the break can vary by year; check the latest federal and provincial notices for the official schedule.[5]
Banks also close when Eid days are declared public holidays. The State Bank of Pakistan issues its own notices to banks and financial institutions, so banking services may be unavailable during the break. Shops, schools and transport services set their own hours, so check locally before making plans.[5][6]
Local authorities may organize safety and sanitation arrangements around animal sacrifice, including collection and disposal of animal waste. Such arrangements are local, so details differ by area.[4]
Frequently asked questions
Is Eid al-Adha a public holiday in Pakistan?
Yes. The Cabinet Division includes Eid-ul-Azha in its public holiday calendar and announces the holiday schedule. Check current notices for the dates and number of days.[5]
How is the date determined?
The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee announces the new moon after receiving reports from central, zonal and district committees. The start of Zil Hajj determines the date in the Islamic calendar.[2]
Are banks open during Eid al-Adha?
Banks close on the Eid days declared as public holidays. The State Bank issues notices confirming the applicable closure period.[6]
Are shops and public transport closed?
Opening hours and services vary, so check with local providers before travelling or visiting.[4]
Sources and references
Sources used for Feast of the Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha) in Pakistan:
- Ruhat-e-Hilal- Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Government of Pakistan
- Cresent sighted, Eid-ul-Adha to be celebrated on 27 May- Radio Pakistan
- Eid ul-Adha Message from Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, Federal Minister for Law and Justice and Human Rights- Press Information Department, Government of Pakistan
- Nation celebrates Eid-ul-Azha with religious zeal- Radio Pakistan
- Public and Optional Holidays for the Year 2025- Cabinet Division, Government of Pakistan
- PUBLIC HOLIDAYS- State Bank of Pakistan