Islamabad exempts markets and malls from business hour restrictions until May 31

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad has temporarily exempted markets, bazaars and shopping malls from business operating hour restrictions until May 31, according to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division on Monday.

The notification said all shops, markets and shopping centres in the capital would remain exempt from fixed closing hours with immediate effect.

Bakeries, tandoors, restaurants and grocery stores have also been excluded from the restrictions, it added.

The Cabinet Division said the decision was approved by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to facilitate business activity and improve public convenience.

Under the notification, markets and commercial centres in Islamabad will now be allowed to remain open seven days a week.

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The move follows similar decisions by the governments of Sindh and Punjab last week to withdraw restrictions on business operating hours across their respective regions.

Senior Sindh Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said the decision was taken after considering feedback and concerns raised by traders and industrialists.

Under the Sindh government’s order, markets, shopping malls, hotels, restaurants, food outlets, marriage halls and marquees have been exempted from mandatory closing times.

He said commercial centres across the province would now operate under normal hours without restrictions, adding that the move reflects the government’s focus on economic activity and business support.