ICT admin issues new business timings under austerity measures

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Jun, 2026) The Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration has announced new closing hours for businesses and commercial establishments under ongoing austerity measures.

Under the notification issued on Wednesday, shops, markets and shopping malls will close at 9:00 pm, marriage halls and marquees at 10:00 pm, while restaurants and food outlets will be allowed to operate until 11:00 pm.

According to a notification issued by the Office of the District Magistrate Islamabad, the revised timings have been enforced with immediate effect and will remain in place until further orders.

Under the new schedule, all shops, markets, shopping malls, bazaars, departmental stores, grocery stores, general stores and kiryana shops must close by 9:00 pm on all days of the week, including Saturdays and Sundays.

Marriage halls, marquees and other venues hosting events have been directed to close by 10:00 pm.

Restaurants, cafés, eateries, food outlets and standalone fruit and vegetable shops can remain open until 11:00 pm.

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However, takeaway and home delivery services have been exempted from the closing time restrictions and may continue their operations.

The notification also lists several sectors that are exempt from the new timings. Hospitals, clinics, medical laboratories, pharmacies and medical supply stores will continue to operate without restrictions. Standalone bakeries, tandoors, milk and dairy shops have also been exempted.

In addition, fuel stations, CNG pumps and electric vehicle charging stations will remain operational under their existing schedules. Gyms, sports facilities, padel courts, IT companies and call centres have also been excluded from the closure requirements.

The district administration said the measures are part of the government’s efforts to implement energy conservation and austerity policies. Authorities have directed all concerned departments and stakeholders to ensure compliance with the notified timings.