LAHORE, June 4, 2026 Actor and producer Fahad Mustafa has welcomed the Punjab government’s decision to extend cinema operating hours, describing the move as a positive step for both filmmakers and moviegoers.
The development follows a revision of business operating schedules under the provincial government’s austerity measures, allowing cinemas across Punjab to remain open until 11pm.
Reacting to the announcement, Fahad shared the official notification on social media and thanked Maryam Nawaz for the decision. He also encouraged audiences to visit cinemas and watch his latest film, Zombeid.
In his message, the actor invited people across Punjab to take advantage of the revised timings and enjoy films on the big screen, expressing optimism that the change would benefit the local entertainment industry.
The post quickly attracted attention online, with fans and fellow celebrities responding positively. Fahad’s co-star Mehwish Hayat congratulated him in the comments section, while members of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz also appreciated his acknowledgement of the government’s initiative.
The revised policy comes shortly after Fahad publicly appealed to Senior Punjab Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb to reconsider earlier restrictions that required cinemas to close by 8pm. At the time, he argued that evening screenings play a vital role in attracting audiences, particularly during the opening weeks of newly released films.
Industry observers believe the extended operating hours could provide a significant boost to cinema attendance and help strengthen Pakistan’s film sector by giving audiences greater flexibility to attend screenings.
Under the updated schedule, shops, markets and shopping malls will be required to close by 9pm, while wedding halls and marquees can operate until 10pm. Restaurants, cafés, cinemas, food outlets, and fruit and vegetable shops will be allowed to remain open until 11pm.
Meanwhile, several essential and service-based sectors have been exempted from the restrictions. These include bakeries, tandoors, milk shops, petrol pumps, CNG stations, electric vehicle charging facilities, gyms, sports centres, IT companies and call centres. Healthcare institutions, including hospitals, clinics, laboratories and pharmacies, will continue operating without time limitations.
