Islamabad Travel Tips

Islamabad is a modern, yet unmistakably Islamic city. Visitors to Islamabad would therefore do well to understand social conventions that stem from age old Islamic law. Doing so will ensure a trip that is highly enjoyable devoid of misunderstandings.


Social Conventions

Mutual hospitality and respect is important. It is the cornerstone upon which all social relationships are built and permeates through all levels of society. Islamic beliefs and traditions should be acknowledged and respected. Smoking is prohibited in some places; a polite inquiry prior to lighting a cigarette is recommended. Visiting business guests would most likely be entertained in hotels or restaurants. In the event that you are invited to a Pakistani home, you are expected to take a gift or souvenir along. Clothing can be informal, but women should exercise restraint in their attire: tight clothing is to be avoided while arms and legs should be covered.

Cab drivers are known to charge foreigners extravagant sums. If traveling in cabs, it is advisable to seek advice of locals or hotel staff beforehand to get an idea on the costs involved. Hotel staff will also be willing to arrange a cab service for the convenience of guests.


Health Considerations

Prior to entry to Pakistan, travellers from endemic zones are expected to produce Yellow Fever vaccination certificate. Travellers expecting to stay for a period of a year or more should produce an AIDS free certificate.

Tap water in Islamabad originates from the Simly and Rawal dams. However, water is polluted and therefore not safe to drink. Travellers are advised to boil water before drinking. Mineral water is a good alternative.


Security Considerations

The current atmosphere in Pakistan is such that travellers are advised to exercise restraint in exploring the country. US and UK travellers, in particular, are strongly advised to avoid Waziristan, Baluchistan, Sui and Federally-Administered Tribal Areas and Agencies (FATA). Islamabad, although relatively safer when compared to cities such as Karachi, is still a target for terrorists. Extreme caution is still advised.


Tipping

Hotels and restaurants add a 5-10% service charge, but tipping is still acceptable.


Business Hours

Office hours are between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm. An hour is allowed for breaks from Mondays to Thursdays. On Fridays, employees are given two hours. Saturdays are half days that begin at 9:30 am and end at 1:00 pm with no breaks in between. Sundays are non-working days.

Holidays

Jan 21 2005 Eid ul-Azha (Feast of the Sacrifice)
Feb 20 Ashoura
Mar 23 Pakistan Day
Apr 21 Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi (Birth of the Prophet)
Aug 14 Independence Day
Nov 3-5 Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan)
Nov 9 Allama Muhammad Iqbal Day
Dec 25 Quaid-e-Azam’s Birthday