ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has predicted that the Islamic month of Rabiul Awwal 1448 Hijri is likely to commence from August 15.
The Rabiul Awwal crescent is unlikely to be visible on the evening of August 13. Based on the forecast, the first day of Rabiul Awwal is expected to be August 15, while 12 Rabi-ul-Awwal is likely to fall on Wednesday, August 26.
The final decision regarding the sighting of the moon and the beginning of Rabiul Awwal will, however, be announced by the Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee.
If the forecasts proves true, Pakistan will observe a public holiday on August 26 on account of Eid Miladun Nabi.
August is also expected to bring several holidays for people in Pakistan as the month is expected to include two federal holidays along with 10 regular weekly holidays, resulting in a total of 12 holidays.
Pakistanis are also expected to get a three-day break around Independence Day. August 14 will fall on Friday this year, followed by the regular Saturday and Sunday holidays, allowing people to enjoy three consecutive days off.
Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates has announced a public holiday on Friday, August 28, 2026, to mark the birth anniversary of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
According to reports from Arab media, the UAE government media office said the holiday would apply to employees in both the public and private sectors.
For employees whose regular weekend falls on Saturday and Sunday, the August 28 holiday will result in a three-day break extending through August 30.
