Islamabad: Authorities in Islamabad have declared Dec. 26 a local public holiday to support security and logistical preparations for an upcoming visit by UAE President.
The decision, announced through an official order issued by Additional Deputy Commissioner Sahibzada Muhammad Yousaf, applies only within Islamabad and is aimed at ensuring smooth administrative coordination during the visit.
Limited scope of holiday
While most residents will observe the local holiday, essential services will remain operational. Employees of the Islamabad Capital Territory administration, the Capital Development Authority, district offices, police and government-run hospitals are exempt from the break, according to the notification.
Officials said the selective holiday reflects the need to keep key institutions fully functional while heightened security arrangements are put in place.
Extended break for residents
The declaration effectively provides Islamabad residents with a longer break from Dec. 25 to Dec. 28, combining the local holiday with scheduled public holidays.
Authorities said the move would help reduce traffic and routine activity in the capital during the high-level visit.
UAE President’s Pakistan visit
Meanwhile, officials familiar with the matter said United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan is expected to arrive in Islamabad on Dec. 26.
During the visit, the UAE leader is likely to hold talks with senior Pakistani officials, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The meetings will focus on bilateral cooperation and regional issues.
Banks to close on Dec. 25
Separately, the State Bank of Pakistan announced that banks and other financial institutions across the country will remain closed on Dec. 25.
The closure will mark Quaid-e-Azam Day and Christmas, in line with federal government instructions, the central bank said in a notification.
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