The district administration of Islamabad has revised business operating hours across the federal capital, allowing commercial establishments to remain open for longer periods under a new notification issued on Wednesday.
New Operating Schedule
Under the updated schedule, shops, markets, shopping centres and grocery stores will be permitted to operate until 9:00 pm. Wedding halls, marquees and other event venues can continue business activities until 10:00 pm. Restaurants, cafés and food outlets have been allowed to remain open until 11:00 pm, while takeaway and home delivery services will continue without any timing restrictions.
Exemptions from Timing Restrictions
The notification exempts healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, medical laboratories and pharmacies, from the revised operating hours. Other businesses excluded from the restrictions include bakeries, tandoors, dairy shops, petrol pumps and CNG stations, which will continue operating according to their existing schedules. In addition, gyms, sports complexes, padel courts, IT companies and call centres have also been granted exemptions from the new timing regulations.
Implementation and Purpose
According to the district administration, the revised business hours took effect on June 10 and will remain applicable until further orders. Officials said the move is part of broader energy conservation measures while also providing greater operational flexibility for businesses and commercial activities in the capital.
