Operating Hours of Malls, Markets and Restaurants During Ramadan. The government of Punjab has announced a major relief for businesses ahead of Ramadan 2026 by extending operating hours for shops, markets, malls, and restaurants across the province. The decision is expected to benefit both traders and consumers during the holy month, when commercial activity traditionally increases, especially during evening and late-night hours.
The move has been widely welcomed by business communities, who consider it a timely step to support economic activity during Ramadan.
Official Notification Issued by Labour Department
According to an official notification issued on February 16, 2026, by the Labour and Human Resource Department, all shops and commercial establishments have been exempted from regular closing hour restrictions during Ramadan.
The notification applies to all establishments covered under the Punjab Shops and Establishments Ordinance, 1969, which regulates business working hours and employee welfare conditions in the province.
Authorities confirmed that the order was issued under the powers granted by Section 4 of the ordinance, allowing the government to relax operational restrictions in special circumstances such as religious occasions or public interest.
Businesses Allowed to Operate Beyond Standard Hours
Under the new directive, shops, shopping malls, supermarkets, chain stores, and restaurants will be allowed to remain open beyond the usual working hour limitations that normally apply under the law.
Typically, businesses in Punjab are required to close within specified hours to ensure compliance with labor laws and employee welfare regulations. However, the Ramadan exemption allows commercial establishments to operate for longer durations, particularly during late-night hours when shopping and dining activity peaks.
This decision is expected to enhance convenience for citizens who prefer to shop after Iftar and Taraweeh prayers.
Exemption Covers Multiple Commercial Sectors
The notification clearly states that the exemption applies broadly across the commercial sector. This includes:
- Small retail shops
- Large shopping malls
- Supermarkets and grocery chains
- Brand outlets and chain stores
- Restaurants and food outlets
By covering all major segments of the retail and hospitality sectors, the government aims to ensure uniform implementation of extended business hours across the province.
Business owners believe that this move will significantly boost retail sales and improve overall market activity during Ramadan.
Previous Notifications Superseded
The latest notification also clarifies that all previous orders regarding business operating hours during Ramadan stand superseded. This means the current directive will serve as the primary guideline for commercial operations during the holy month.
However, the exemption is not entirely unconditional. Authorities have emphasized that businesses must still comply with Sections 8 and 9 of the Punjab Shops and Establishments Ordinance, which relate to employee rights and workplace conditions.
This ensures that while businesses can operate longer hours, labor protections and worker welfare will remain intact.
Issued Under Authority of Governor of Punjab
The order has been issued by the Secretary of the Labour and Human Resource Department under the authority of the Governor of Punjab. This highlights the administrative importance of the decision and ensures its legal validity across the province.
The involvement of top provincial leadership indicates that the government is prioritizing economic facilitation and public convenience during Ramadan.
Implementation Across the Province
To ensure smooth implementation, copies of the notification have been forwarded to various authorities and administrative bodies. These include:
- Administrative secretaries
- Divisional commissioners
- Deputy commissioners
- Director General Labour Welfare
- Chambers of commerce
- Relevant enforcement departments
These institutions will be responsible for ensuring that the extended working hour policy is properly enforced across urban and rural areas of Punjab.
Officials have also been tasked with monitoring compliance and addressing any issues that may arise during implementation.
Relief for Businesses and Consumers
The extension of business hours is being seen as a major relief for traders, retailers, and restaurant owners who experience peak business during Ramadan nights. Many businesses rely heavily on Ramadan sales, especially in sectors such as clothing, food, and household items.
For consumers, the decision provides greater flexibility in managing their shopping schedules. With longer operating hours, families can shop more comfortably after Iftar without rushing before market closures.
Restaurant owners have also welcomed the decision, as late-night dining and takeaway orders typically surge during Ramadan.
Economic Impact of Extended Hours
Experts believe that allowing businesses to operate longer hours could have a positive economic impact by increasing retail turnover and supporting small and medium enterprises.
Ramadan is traditionally one of the busiest commercial periods in Pakistan, with increased spending on food, clothing, and Eid preparations. Extended market timings are likely to stimulate economic activity and support employment in the retail and service sectors.
At the same time, authorities have urged businesses to maintain compliance with labor laws to ensure a balance between commercial growth and worker welfare.
Conclusion
The Punjab government’s decision to extend operating hours for malls, markets, and restaurants during Ramadan 2026 reflects a business-friendly and public-oriented approach. By exempting commercial establishments from regular closing hour restrictions, the government aims to facilitate economic activity while providing convenience to citizens during the holy month.
