All federal institutions will continue normal operations on Friday, December 26, despite a declared local holiday in Islamabad. The Cabinet Division confirmed that the day will remain a regular working day for the federal government. As a result, employees of federal ministries and attached departments are expected to report to duty as usual.
The clarification came amid public confusion after Islamabad’s district administration announced a local holiday. Many assumed the holiday would apply nationwide or cover federal offices. However, officials stressed that federal institutions function under separate administrative authority.
Cabinet Division issues clear stance
A spokesperson for the Cabinet Division stated that no notification has been issued declaring a holiday for federal institutions. Therefore, December 26 will be treated as a standard working day across all federal offices. This decision applies regardless of local holidays announced by district administrations.
Moreover, the Cabinet Division emphasized that federal operations remain uninterrupted unless a formal notification is issued at the national level. Consequently, ministries, divisions, and autonomous federal bodies will follow their usual schedules.
Islamabad district holiday explained
The Islamabad district administration has declared a local holiday within the city’s revenue limits on December 26, 2025. This decision was approved by the District Magistrate and applies only to offices operating under local jurisdiction. Accordingly, a notification was issued to inform relevant departments.
Under this notification, government offices working under the Islamabad Capital Territory administration will remain closed. However, the order does not extend to federal ministries or institutions headquartered in the capital.
Essential services remain operational
Even within Islamabad’s local holiday framework, several essential service providers are exempt from closure. These services will continue functioning to ensure public convenience and safety. They include the Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad, Capital Development Authority, and ICT Administration.
In addition, Islamabad Police, hospitals, and utility providers will remain fully operational. Electricity and gas services will continue through the Islamabad Electric Supply Company and Sui Northern Gas Pipelines. Therefore, residents should not expect any disruption in essential facilities.
