Public Holiday announced in KP for 1st Muharram Amid Moon Sighting

PESHAWAR – Residents of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will enjoy a day of on 1st Muharaam while Ruet body meets today for Moon sighting.

Authorities announceed closure of all government offices and institutions on first day of New Islamic Year 1448 AH, but it will depend entirely on the final moon sighting decision.

The provincial administration said the holiday will be observed in line with the verdict of the Central moon-sighting authority, as Muslims across the world prepare to welcome 1448 AH.

Meanwhile, Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is meeting today to sight Muharram crescent. The meeting will be chaired by Maulana Syed Muhammad Abdul Khabeer Azad, who also serves as Khateeb of the historic Badshahi Mosque, adding religious weight to an already closely watched decision.

The session will bring together officials from Ministry of Religious Affairs, provincial moon-sighting committees, religious scholars from multiple schools of thought, and technical experts from SUPARCO along with the Meteorological Department. They are expected to present scientific data on lunar visibility conditions alongside traditional testimonies.

Despite growing anticipation and speculation, the final word will come only after the committee concludes its deliberations and issues an official nationwide announcement, setting the stage for the start of the Islamic calendar year.

Ashura Holidays

Ashura 2026 is expected to fall on June 25 and 26 (Thursday and Friday), raising the possibility of a long weekend if official holidays are observed as scheduled. However, the final calendar will depend on the moon sighting and formal announcements.

Muharram 2026 is being observed with deep religious reverence across the Muslim world. The month is widely regarded as a time of spiritual reflection, discipline, and remembrance of sacrifice, particularly the historic events associated with Karbala. The first ten days are marked by religious gatherings, mourning processions, and commemorative rituals.

The month is widely observed through majalis, processions, religious recitations, and charitable activities, while security arrangements are beefed up due to large gatherings.