On July 4, 2025, the General Administration & Coordination Department announced that all NADRA offices in Pakistan will close on July 5 and 6 for Ashura 2025, aligning with Sindh and federal public holidays for the 9th and 10th of Muharram.
The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) will suspend operations, including 24-hour service centres, from midnight July 4–5 to midnight July 6–7, 2025, for Ashura, commemorating the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS). Citizens are advised to use the Pak ID mobile app for select services, such as ID card applications, during the 48-hour closure. NADRA offices will resume regular operations on July 7, per the department’s statement.
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The Sindh government declared July 5 and 6, 2025, as public holidays across the province to observe Ashura, a significant period for religious processions. The federal government echoed this, closing most administrative bodies. Essential services, including law enforcement and municipal authorities managing Muharram gatherings, will remain operational. According to Punjab police data, 45% of processions have been flagged as high-risk to ensure safety.
The closure affects NADRA’s 600+ centres, which handle over 100,000 daily transactions, according to official estimates. Citizens seeking ID renewals or registrations are advised to plan, as delays are expected. The Pak ID app, downloaded by 2 million users, offers remote access to services, easing the impact. Social media on X reflects public frustration over limited awareness, urging authorities to improve their communication.