Pakistan government has declared a three-day public holiday for Eid ul Fitr from March 31 to April 2, 2025, according to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division. The three-day holiday falls from Monday to Wednesday.
“The prime minister has been pleased to declare March 31 to April 2, 2025 (Monday to Wednesday) as public holidays on the occasion of Eidul Fitr,” the official press release stated.
The holiday period marks one of the most significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar. Eid ul Fitr marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan for Muslims around the world. Muslims offer special prayers on Eid morning and later spend the three days of Eid with their families and loved ones and prepare and savor traditional, sumptuous meals.
Moon Sighting to confirm Eid Date
As the nation anticipates the festivities, the exact timing of Eid ul Fitr remains contingent on the sighting of the Shawwal crescent.
The Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee (national moonsighting committee), in conjunction with regional zonal committees, will meet on the evening of March 30 (Sunday) to observe the moon of Shawwal, which signifies the end of Ramazan.
Khalid Ijaz Mufti, Secretary General of the Ruet-e-Hilal Council, stated, “The Shawwal crescent is likely to be visible on the evening of Sunday, March 30, provided weather conditions are favorable.” The committee’s observations will determine the exact date for Eid celebrations.
According to reports from the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), the first day of Eid ul Fitr is anticipated to fall on March 31, based on scientific assessments and astronomical calculations regarding lunar movements.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has also confirmed that there is a strong possibility of sighting the new moon of Shawwal on March 30, further aligning with the predictions made by Suparco.
According to astronomical predictions, the Shawwal moon will be visible at 3:58 pm on March 29, with the moon expected to be 27 hours old at the time of observation. The Ruet-i-Hilal Committee will hold meetings on both March 29 and March 30 to confirm the moon sighting, ensuring that the country’s Eid celebrations are aligned with the lunar calendar.
Eid Celebrations and Travel Arrangements
Eidul Fitr is one of the most joyous occasions in the Islamic world, marking the end of a month of fasting and reflection. Following the announcement of the holidays, celebrations will include prayers, feasts, and family gatherings.
In anticipation of the increased travel demand during the Eid holidays, Pakistan Railways has also announced the operation of four special trains. These trains are designed to accommodate the high volume of passengers traveling before and after the Eid festivities. The special train service will include routes from Quetta to Peshawar, passing through Sibbi, Sukkur/Rohri, Khanewal, Lahore, and Rawalpindi, providing convenient travel options for people across the country.
