A Pakistani judge has banned Valentine's Day celebrations in the country's capital, saying they are against Islamic teachings.

The judge ruled on a petition seeking to ban public celebrations in Islamabad, court official Niaz Saleh said.

He said the order has been sent to Pakistan's media regulator to ensure a blackout on any Valentine's Day promotions in print or electronic media.

Islamist and right-wing parties in Pakistan view Valentine's Day as a vulgar Western import.