The Punjab government has announced a province-wide public holiday on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, on the occasion of Shab-e-Barat, following approval from the competent authority.

According to an official notification issued by the Services and General Administration Department (S&GAD), all government offices across Punjab will remain closed on the declared holiday. The closure will also apply to autonomous and semi-autonomous bodies, corporations, local councils, and all educational institutions operating under the administrative control of the Punjab government.

The notification stated that the holiday has been announced to facilitate citizens in observing Shab-e-Barat, a religious night marked by prayers, worship, and remembrance. It added that Shab-e-Barat falls on the night between the 14th and 15th of Sha’ban 1447 A.H., subject to the confirmation of moon sighting.

Authorities clarified that the holiday applies only to institutions under the Punjab government, while private offices and businesses may decide their working status independently.

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The Director General of Public Relations (DGPR), Lahore, has directed that the notification be published in leading English and Urdu newspapers at both national and regional levels. The order also includes wide publicity of the holiday announcement through electronic media to ensure public awareness.

Shab-e-Barat is observed across Pakistan with religious gatherings, special prayers, and visits to graveyards. Many citizens also engage in charitable activities and night-long worship on this occasion.

The announcement of the public holiday is expected to ease travel and allow people across the province to observe the religious night with devotion and peace.