Public Holiday on 9 November in Pakistan 2025. The Government of Pakistan has officially declared Saturday, 9 November as a nationwide public holiday to commemorate Allama Muhammad Iqbal’s birth anniversary, known as Iqbal Day or Youm-e-Wiladat-e-Iqbal. According to a formal notification issued by the Cabinet Division, the day will be observed as a public holiday for all federal government offices, provincial departments and institutions across Pakistan.
Why this holiday matters?
Allama Iqbal (1877-1938) holds a revered place in Pakistan’s history as a poet, philosopher and the ideological fountain behind the vision of a separate homeland for Muslims in British India. His works in Urdu and Persian, and his emphasis on khudi (self-hood) and collective awakening, make him a national icon.
Observing 9 November as a holiday serves multiple purposes:
- It honours Iqbal’s legacy and his role in shaping Pakistan’s ideological foundation.
- It provides a day of reflection for citizens, students and institutions to engage with his poetry, philosophy and message of empowerment.
- By making it a public holiday, the government ensures wider participation in commemorative events, seminars, poetry recitals and cultural programmes.
Official announcement and institutional details
- A circular issued by the Cabinet Division states: “Wednesday 9th November, 2022 shall be observed as public holiday throughout the country.” for that year.
- More recently, news outlets reported that for 2024 and beyond the government reaffirmed 9 November as a public holiday.
- The notification specifically mentions federal as well as provincial government departments, and the list of holidays published by holiday-trackers confirms the date in their calendars.
What this means for you
- Schools and universities: Expect closures or special programmes. Many educational institutes hold essays, debates or poetry recitals centred on Iqbal’s thought.
- Government offices: Federal and provincial offices will observe the holiday; essential services remain unaffected.
- Banks and financial institutions: Usually follow the holiday roster – the State Bank of Pakistan may issue separate instructions but banks generally close on such national holidays.
- Private sector & businesses: While not all private businesses may close, many adapt by giving staff leave or having limited hours. It’s wise to check locally.
- Commemoration events: Expect cultural programmes, newspaper features, radio/TV broadcasts focusing on Iqbal’s philosophy, and social-media campaigns using tags like #IqbalDay, #9NovemberHoliday.
Final thoughts
The restoration of 9 November as a public holiday in Pakistan is more than a day off, it’s an opportunity for national reflection, celebration and renewed engagement with the ideals that shaped the country’s identity. Whether you’re a student, teacher, employee or business owner, marking this day purposefully can contribute to preserving the legacy of Allama Iqbal and re-energising the call for self-respect, unity and action.
