Public Holidays in Pakistan

Pakistan observes a wide array of public holidays each year, reflecting the nation's rich cultural heritage and religious diversity. These holidays are categorised into three main types: public holidays, bank holidays, and optional holidays. Public holidays are celebrated nationwide, marking significant historical and cultural events. Bank holidays are designated days when financial institutions are closed, while optional holidays provide individuals with the flexibility to take time off for personal or religious reasons.

List of Public Holidays in Pakistan

Bank Holidays

Holiday Regulations and Worker Rights

Under the Factories Act, employers in Pakistan are required to provide their workers with paid holidays on all days declared by the government as festival holidays. If an employee is required to work on a public holiday, they are entitled to one additional compensatory holiday with full pay and a substitute holiday. This means that the rate of pay for working on public holidays is 300 times the rate of normal pay, which is greater than the overtime rate of pay. Read more about compensation and hours here.

The provincial government announces festival holidays, typically 14 in number, which are provided with full pay. However, if a holiday falls on a Sunday, no substitute is given.

Cultural and Religious Considerations

Muslim festivals in Pakistan are subject to the moon's appearance, causing slight variations in dates. Non-Muslim communities are granted paid holidays for their respective festivals, with provincial governments issuing notifications accordingly. This ensures that individuals from diverse religious backgrounds can observe their traditions and beliefs.

List of Optional Holidays

Impact on Workers’ Rights

1. Paid Leave for Public Holidays
   

   According to Pakistani labour law, employees who do not work on a public holiday are entitled to their full daily wage. Employers cannot deduct pay simply because a worker is on leave for a national holiday.

2. Overtime Pay for Working on a Public Holiday
   

   Workers who are required to work on a public holiday are entitled to triple their normal wage (300% of their regular daily earnings) or an alternative paid leave day if agreed upon with their employer. This generous compensation highlights the importance placed on public holidays within the Pakistani labour framework.

3. Eligibility for Paid Public Holidays
   

   Full-time and permanent employees are entitled to paid public holidays. Casual and part-time employees may receive pay for public holidays if it is stated in their employment contract or if they regularly work on the specific day of the week when the holiday falls.

Essential Services and Public Holidays

Workers in essential services, such as healthcare, security, and emergency response, often work on public holidays. In such cases, labour laws ensure fair compensation through overtime pay or time off in lieu. This recognition of their essential role helps maintain morale and ensures that critical services remain operational.

Retail and Hospitality Workers

Many retail, hospitality, and restaurant employees work on public holidays. Employers must adhere to fair wage practices and ensure workers receive appropriate compensation. This sector is crucial to the economy and must balance service provision with fair labour practices.

Collective Agreements and Contracts

Certain industries have collective bargaining agreements that offer additional benefits, such as extra annual holiday bonuses or increased pay rates beyond what is required by law. These agreements can provide further protections and advantages for workers, ensuring that their rights are upheld.

Conclusion

Understanding your public holiday rights can help prevent unfair labour practices. If you are unsure about your pay entitlements, check your employment contract or labour law guidelines. Ensuring fair compensation and a better work-life balance is crucial for workers in Pakistan.