Location: Asia
Local Time: GMT+5
Capital City: Islamabad
Population: 1.76 million
Area: 803,940357,021 square km, 310,403 square miles.
Language(s): Urdu, English, Sindhi, Punjabi, Pushto, Baluchi
Dialling Code: 92
Emergency: Police: 15. Fire: 16, Ambulance: 115
TV Standard:
Driving: Driving is on the left. National licence and International Driving Permit required
Electricity: 220V AC 50Hz
Currency: Pakistan Rupee (PKR 1 = 100 Paisa)
Notes: PKR: 5, 10, 50, 100, 500, 1,000
Coins: PKR: 1, 2. Paisa: 25, 50
Credit Cards/Travellers Cheques: Credit cards and travellers cheques are generally accepted
Opening Hours
Bank: 0900-1330 Mon-Thur & Sat, 0900-1130 Fri
Office: 0900-1700 Mon-Thur & Sat, 0900-1230 & 1430-1700 Fri (private offices), 0900-1700 Mon-Thur & Sat, 0900-1230 Fri (Government offices)
Shops: 0930-1300 & 1500-1830 Sat-Thur
Public Holidays
2012
Note: Muslim festivals are timed according to local sightings of various phases of the moon and the dates shown are approximate. During the lunar month of Ramadan that precedes Eid al-Fitr, Muslims fast during the day and feast at night and normal business patterns may be interrupted. Most restaurants are closed during the day and there is a restriction on smoking and drinking in public places. Eid al-Fitr and Eid ul-Azha may last from 2-4 days, depending on the region. Christian holidays are usually only observed by the Christian community.
Business/Social Hints: Women should dress conventionally, revealing clothes should not be worn. A headscarf is essential whilst visiting holy places. The business community generally speaks English. Care should be taken to respect Muslim conventions. It is the convention to use the right and not the left hand when shaking hands and passing or receiving anything. Visits during Ramadan should be avoided. Strict laws govern the consumption of alcohol and consumption in public is not permitted. Smoking is not permitted in many public places. Request permission before smoking in offices and restaurants. On social occasions punctuality is appreciated. Dress as for business meetings unless otherwise indicated.
Tipping: A service charge is usually included in the bill, therefore tips are not necessary. When there is no service charge, tips are around 10%
