Relief for Gyms, Call Centres as Islamabad announces New Business Timings

ISLAMABAD – Islamabad administration announced revised business timings that are already reshaping the city’s daily routine. Under the new plan, most markets are required to shut early, but key service sectors, including gyms and call centres have been given relief to continue operations beyond the standard closing hours. Under the new directives, all shops, markets, and shopping malls across the capital are required to close by 8:00 pm daily. even on weekend, amid tightening of business hours under ongoing austerity and energy-saving measures. The updated policy comes with expanded exemptions. Essential and service-oriented sectors such as hospitals, pharmacies, petrol stations, dairy shops, IT companies, sports facilities, call centres, and gyms have been granted permission to continue operations beyond the restricted hours, offering relief to both employees and consumers who depend on extended access to these services. New Business Hours in Islamabad Restaurants, grocery stores, and other food outlets will be allowed to remain open until 10:00 PM, after which takeaway and delivery services will continue without interruption, ensuring limited continuity for late-hour demand. Social and event-related activities have also been brought under regulation. Marriage halls, event venues, and even private gatherings held at homes must conclude by 10:00 PM, a move expected to significantly affect wedding and events planning across the capital. The new schedule came into effect on May 5, 2026, and will remain in place until further notice. Authorities have stressed strict compliance, warning of penalties for violations as part of a broader effort to manage fuel consumption and electricity usage more efficiently. As officials call the move as a necessary step in the national interest, business owners remain divided, some welcoming the relief granted to gyms and call centres, while others worry that reduced trading hours for retail sectors could lead to financial strain. As im