Islamabad has been declared a public holiday on Tuesday, December 26, as the city prepares to host a high-profile foreign visit. The announcement was made by the district administration on Wednesday, citing the arrival of a high-level delegation as the reason for the temporary closure of government offices.
Holiday Details and Exemptions
According to official notifications, the public holiday will apply to most government departments across the city. However, essential services will remain operational. This includes the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration, the Capital Development Authority (CDA), police forces, and government-run hospitals. Copies of the notification have already been distributed to all relevant offices to ensure compliance.
The decision aims to facilitate smooth preparations and ensure that administrative resources can focus on the upcoming diplomatic visit. Public holidays for official purposes, especially during high-profile visits, are not uncommon in Pakistan. They are often declared to allow for heightened security arrangements and to streamline logistical support.
UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed’s Visit
The visit coincides with the official trip of United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to Pakistan. This marks a significant moment in bilateral relations between Pakistan and the UAE, two countries that maintain strong diplomatic and economic ties.
Also Read: UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed to Visit Pakistan on December 26
Preparations are reportedly underway to welcome President Al Nahyan with a grand reception. While the Pakistani government has not disclosed the full details of the schedule, such visits typically involve high-level meetings with the President and Prime Minister, ceremonial protocols, and discussions on strategic partnerships, trade, and regional cooperation.
Importance of the Visit
Pakistan and the UAE share longstanding ties, particularly in trade, investment, and energy. The UAE is one of Pakistan’s largest investors, with several joint ventures and infrastructure projects underway. Additionally, both countries collaborate on regional security and counter-terrorism initiatives.
Observers note that President Al Nahyan’s visit is likely to reinforce economic cooperation, including potential agreements in investment, energy, and technology sectors. Past visits by UAE leaders have often led to memoranda of understanding and financial pledges supporting Pakistan’s development projects.
Public Preparations and Security
Given the stature of the visiting delegation, security arrangements are being intensified across Islamabad. Roads near key government offices and the capital’s airport are expected to experience temporary closures and diversions. Residents have been advised to plan travel accordingly, particularly in sectors close to official venues and reception areas.
Officials have emphasized that essential services, including hospitals, emergency services, and law enforcement, will continue to function uninterrupted. The temporary holiday, therefore, primarily affects administrative and non-essential offices, ensuring minimal disruption to critical operations.
Looking Ahead
The public holiday provides both logistical flexibility for authorities and an opportunity for citizens to witness the city’s preparations for a high-level diplomatic event. While the visit itself is short, its implications for Pakistan-UAE relations are expected to be long-lasting, potentially paving the way for enhanced economic partnerships and strategic cooperation.
As Islamabad prepares for President Al Nahyan’s arrival, the city is likely to see heightened activity, ceremonial displays, and a focus on showcasing Pakistan’s hospitality to international guests.
