Pakistani holidays 2026: expat guide and checklists

For millions of Pakistanis living abroad, the arrival of Pakistani holidays brings a mix of joy, nostalgia and longing. This guide covers the main celebrations in the Pakistani holiday calendar for 2026, explains how to stay connected, and offers practical tips for organising calls, online traditions and money transfers.

Understanding Pakistani holidays in 2026

Pakistan’s celebrations include national, cultural and religious events. The official list of national holidays in Pakistan typically includes:

These are part of the broader Pakistani national holidays, observed across the country. Additional dates — especially religious holidays in Pakistan like Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Azha or Ashura — are based on the lunar calendar and may shift slightly each year. When checking the Pakistani holiday calendar, keep in mind that many events span several days, and some regional observances may differ.

Full calendar of national Pakistani holidays in 2026

For expats, it’s also useful to track bank holidays in Pakistan. Banks and government offices pause operations during major celebrations, which can affect communication or transfers sent home.

Why Pakistani holidays matter even more abroad

Being away from home means you miss your family year-round, but during Pakistani holidays, the feeling becomes sharper. You remember the noise of a full house, the smell of fresh food being cooked, the way streets light up on national days. And suddenly, thousands of kilometres feel heavier.

Many Pakistani expats share similar feelings online — stories of missing late-night Eid preparations or wishing they could join the family table for tea on Independence Day. These moments remind us that holidays are about connection, not location. That’s why maintaining emotional closeness truly matters.

How expats can stay connected during holidays

Even if you can’t be physically present, there are meaningful ways to stay part of the celebration.

Plan calls that feel personal

A simple call means more on a holiday. Whether it’s a video chat with siblings getting ready for Eid prayer or a midnight call on 14 August, these small moments create closeness. Families often choose one special time when everyone joins — despite time zones — to greet each other and celebrate.

Bring traditions online

If your family is celebrating one of the religious holidays in Pakistan, recreate the atmosphere at home:

• cook the same dish your mother makes;
• play naats or patriotic songs in the background;
• join family in a virtual prayer or dinner;
• light a candle or decorate your space.

This is how many expats “bring Pakistan into their home,” even if they live in Europe, the Middle East or North America.

Share memories and plans

Use holidays to remember stories from childhood, talk about the next trip home, or share photos of your own celebration abroad. These exchanges make you feel part of the family timeline, not outside of it.

Support family financially

For many, celebrating also means supporting parents, helping siblings prepare for Eid or contributing to household expenses. Since many celebrations overlap with bank holidays in Pakistan, it’s helpful to send money a bit earlier.

This is where services with quick and transparent transfers — like Profee — make life easier. Profee shows exactly how much the recipient will get before you confirm the transfer, and most payments arrive within minutes, even during busy holiday seasons. This helps expats support their families smoothly during national holidays in Pakistan, without delays or uncertainty.

Expat checklist for public holidays in Pakistan 2026

Here’s a practical checklist to help you stay close to home, even when you're far away:

• Mark important dates from the list of national holidays in Pakistan in your planner.
• Note major bank holidays in Pakistan, especially around Eid.
• Arrange video calls ahead of time so everyone is free.
• Prepare traditional food or create a familiar atmosphere at home.
• Share photos and greetings in family group chats.
• Send transfers early if your family needs funds for the upcoming celebration.
• Use the quieter moments to reflect, pray or reconnect with your roots.
• Write down memories — holidays often help us appreciate what we miss most.

These small steps make the distance feel lighter.

More about Pakistan:

• What is the calling code for Pakistan?
• Saving money on transfers to Pakistan

Why staying connected really matters

Holidays remind us where we come from. They make us realise the value of shared history, community and love. And for expats, they highlight why staying in touch is essential.

Calls, online traditions, shared memories and financial support all become forms of emotional presence. Whether it’s a national celebration like Independence Day — one of the most meaningful national holidays in Pakistan — or a quieter family-centric event from the list of national holidays in Pakistan, what matters is the connection you maintain. And while nothing replaces being home physically, staying connected keeps the bond alive.

FAQ

What are the main public holidays in Pakistan in 2026?

Major dates include Pakistan Day, Labour Day, Independence Day and Quaid-e-Azam Day. These are part of the Pakistani national holidays celebrated nationwide.

Why are bank holidays important for expats?

Because on bank holidays in Pakistan, banks operate on limited hours. Transfers or confirmations may take longer, so sending money early is helpful.

How can I celebrate holidays abroad?

Through video calls, preparing traditional meals and joining online events linked to major public holidays in Pakistan.

Are all religious holidays fixed?

No, some religious holidays in Pakistan follow the lunar calendar. Always check updated announcements.

What’s the best way to support family during holidays?

Stay connected, plan calls and send timely transfers. Using transparent services like Profee helps ensure your family receives support without delays.