The federal government of Pakistan has officially announced the holidays for Eidul Fitr 2025, providing a much-anticipated break for citizens following the holy month of Ramadan. According to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division on Wednesday, March 19, Eidul Fitr 2025 will be observed with three public holidays, as reported by ARY News. Here’s a detailed guide on the duration, dates, and implications of these holidays.
Duration and Dates of Eidul Fitr 2025 Holidays
The government has declared that Eidul Fitr 2025 holidays will span from Monday, March 31, 2025, to Wednesday, April 2, 2025. This three-day holiday period accounts for the expected observance of Eidul Fitr, which is anticipated to fall on Monday, March 31, 2025, following the completion of 29 days of Ramadan. The exact date of Eidul Fitr will be confirmed by the sighting of the Shawwal moon, as per Islamic tradition, but the government has proactively scheduled the holidays to align with this expectation.
Significance of Eidul Fitr
Eidul Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection for Muslims worldwide. In Pakistan, it is a time for family gatherings, feasting, charity (Zakat-ul-Fitr), and celebrations, including special prayers (Eid Salah), exchanging gifts, and enjoying traditional sweets like sheer khurma and barfi. The holiday is a public holiday, meaning schools, most businesses, and government offices will remain closed, allowing people to participate in festivities and visit loved ones.
Impact on Public and Private Sectors
The three-day holiday will provide a welcome respite for employees and students across Pakistan. Public sector offices, banks, and educational institutions will be closed from March 31 to April 2, 2025. While some private businesses may choose to remain open or operate on reduced hours, many will also observe the holidays, particularly on March 31, the primary day of Eid. Commuters and travelers should anticipate increased traffic and crowded public transport, especially on highways and intercity routes, as people travel to their hometowns for celebrations.
Moon Sighting and Confirmation
The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, responsible for moon sighting in Pakistan, will convene to confirm the Shawwal moon’s sighting on or around Sunday, March 30, 2025. If the moon is sighted, Eidul Fitr will be celebrated on March 31; otherwise, Ramadan will extend to 30 days, and Eid will be observed on April 1, 2025. The government’s holiday announcement anticipates the former scenario, but citizens should stay updated via official announcements from the committee or local religious authorities.
Preparations and Expectations
As Ramadan nears its end, Pakistanis are preparing for Eidul Fitr by shopping for new clothes, decorating homes, and planning family gatherings. Markets across major cities like Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Peshawar are bustling with activity, with vendors offering a range of festive items, from sweets to henna and traditional attire. The government has urged citizens to ensure timely payment of Zakat-ul-Fitr to support the underprivileged, reinforcing the spirit of charity during the festival.
Travel and Safety Advisories
With millions expected to travel during the Eid holidays, authorities have advised citizens to plan their journeys in advance, avoid peak travel hours, and adhere to traffic rules. The National Highway Authority and provincial police have announced enhanced security measures and traffic management plans to ensure safe travel. Citizens are also encouraged to stay hydrated and take precautions against the heat, as temperatures may rise in some regions during late March and early April.
Additional Information
Eidul Fitr is a public holiday recognized by www.timeanddate.com, and most businesses and schools will follow Sunday closing hours on March 31, 2025, with potential variations on April 1 and 2 depending on local practices. For the latest updates on moon sighting, holiday schedules, and travel advisories, follow official government notifications, the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, and national news outlets.
This comprehensive holiday period underscores Pakistan’s commitment to celebrating its cultural and religious traditions, offering citizens a chance to rejuvenate and strengthen community bonds during Eidul Fitr 2025.
