Islamabad Makes Registration Mandatory for Street Iftar Ahead of Ramadan 2026

As Pakistan prepares to welcome Ramadan 2026, Islamabad’s district administration has announced that all street Iftar arrangements will now require official registration and approval.

Citing security concerns in the federal capital, a district administration spokesperson told Geo News on Sunday that “no public Iftar arrangement would be allowed in any part of the federal capital without registration.”

The spokesperson added that individuals interested in organizing street Iftars must submit detailed applications, after which assistant commissioners will inspect the proposed locations before issuing permits. The administration will also ensure proper site identification and provide essential facilities, including security. So far, 18 applications have been received from across Islamabad.

The announcement comes just days ahead of the holy month, which is expected to begin on February 19. According to the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco), the Ramadan crescent for 1447 Hijri is likely to be visible on February 18. “The new moon will be born on February 17 at 5:01pm Pakistan Standard Time, with astronomical parameters indicating favourable visibility conditions the following evening,” the Suparco stated.

Sources in the Ministry of Science and Technology indicated a strong likelihood that Ramadan will begin simultaneously in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia this year. While the new moon is expected to be born on February 17, it is unlikely to be visible in Saudi Arabia, the United States, Africa, Europe, and other regions on the same day.