The federal government of Islamabad has implemented updated business hours as part of a broader austerity policy. This decision was made during a meeting of the Committee on Monitoring and Implementation of Austerity Measures, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar.
The committee evaluated the current austerity efforts alongside factors such as market operating hours, extended daylight during summer, and rising temperatures. Consequently, it resolved to extend the closing times for shops and commercial centers across the capital.
the revised schedule, retail outlets including shops, markets, and shopping malls will now remain open until 9:00 PM. Meanwhile, restaurants, cafés, and food establishments are permitted to operate until 11:00 PM. Takeaway and delivery services will continue to function without any time restrictions. However, marriage halls and event venues will maintain their existing closing time of 10:00 PM, with no alterations.
Officials emphasized that essential services such as pharmacies, hospitals, petrol stations, IT, and telecom sectors are exempt from these timing regulations and will operate normally around the clock.
In a significant development, the committee also instructed provincial authorities to collaborate closely with federal agencies to ensure consistent enforcement of these new guidelines nationwide.
