IHC Bans All Indoor Outdoor Sheesha Cafes in Islamabad
Sources say all indoor and outdoor sheesha operations will face a complete shutdown from October 14 following Islamabad High Court proceedings, with legal action expected against establishments violating the restrictions.
ISLAMABAD, October 13, 2026: Authorities in the federal capital have reportedly decided to close all categories of sheesha cafes across Islamabad from Wednesday, October 14, in light of proceedings and directions issued by the Islamabad High Court (IHC), according to sources familiar with the development.
The reported decision covers both indoor and outdoor sheesha operations, leaving no category of such facilities outside the proposed restrictions.
Sources said the administration intends to implement the decision across the federal capital, with establishments continuing restricted activities potentially facing legal action under the applicable laws.
Decision Follows Islamabad High Court Proceedings
The development follows renewed judicial scrutiny of sheesha cafe operations in Islamabad, where the High Court has questioned the continued functioning of establishments without a comprehensive regulatory framework.
During proceedings on Tuesday, Chief Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar expressed concern about the operation of unregulated sheesha cafes and summoned the Chief Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner Islamabad.
The court sought assurances that establishments operating unlawfully would not be permitted to continue their activities.
The proceedings also focused on the government’s progress in finalising regulations governing sheesha cafes and the responsibilities of the district administration and police in ensuring compliance with applicable laws.
Previous Restrictions and Regulatory Questions
The Islamabad district administration had earlier announced a complete restriction on sheesha operations on September 9, 2026, including indoor and outdoor facilities and establishments holding no-objection certificates.
However, the High Court’s subsequent written order clarified that establishments operating lawfully under valid permits should not face coercive action merely for conducting permitted activities.
The court simultaneously directed authorities to proceed against unlawful operations and required the relevant regulatory framework to be finalised.
The latest reported decision to close all categories of sheesha cafes from October 14 therefore comes against a background of continuing judicial proceedings and uncertainty over the applicable regulatory arrangements.
Legal Action Against Violations
According to sources, the reported closure decision will be accompanied by strict enforcement measures against establishments found violating the restrictions.
During the earlier enforcement announcement, the district administration warned that non-compliant cafes could face sealing and legal proceedings against their operators.
The latest development is expected to affect establishments offering sheesha services in both enclosed spaces and outdoor seating areas.
However, the precise legal scope of the reported October 14 restrictions, including their application to establishments holding valid permissions, will require clarification through the latest written judicial directions and any formal administrative notification.
The situation remains subject to further official clarification as Islamabad authorities respond to the High Court’s directions concerning the regulation of sheesha cafes.
