The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) announced that it will be closed from May 26 through May 28 in observance of Eidul Azha holidays. During this period, all commercial banks across the country will also suspend their operations, resulting in a nationwide halt of banking services.
In a related development, the federal government declared three public holidays from May 26 to May 28, as per a notification issued by the Cabinet Division. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved the holiday schedule, mandating the closure of all government offices on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of that week.
Earlier reports had indicated that Eidul Azha might fall on June 7, contingent upon the sighting of the Zul Hijjah moon. Astronomical predictions suggested a low probability of moon visibility on May 27 due to its young age at sunset, with better chances expected on May 28. If the moon is sighted on May 28, the first day of Zul Hijjah would be May 29, placing Eidul Azha on June 7, pending confirmation by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.
Eidul Azha is one of the two major Islamic festivals, commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command. A central tradition of the festival is Qurbani, which involves the sacrifice of animals such as goats, cows, sheep, and camels. The meat from these sacrifices is shared among family, relatives, and the less fortunate, symbolizing charity and social solidarity.
