The State Bank of Pakistan has officially announced revised banking hours for public dealing during Ramadan-ul-Mubarak 2026, outlining adjusted schedules that will be observed by banks across the country throughout the holy month. The updated timings are aimed at facilitating customers and banking staff during Ramadan while ensuring uninterrupted financial services nationwide.
According to the announcement, banks will operate for public dealing from 9:00am to 2:00pm, Monday through Thursday. On Fridays, public dealing hours will be observed from 9:00am to 12:30pm. The central bank clarified that these timings will be followed without any break, allowing customers to complete their transactions within the specified window.
The revised schedule applies during Ramadan-ul-Mubarak 2026 and will guide branch-level operations across commercial banks operating under the regulatory framework of the State Bank of Pakistan. As the regulator of Pakistan’s banking sector, the central bank periodically adjusts working hours during Ramadan to accommodate changes in daily routines while maintaining continuity in financial services.
Public dealing hours specifically refer to the time during which customers can visit bank branches for transactions such as deposits, withdrawals, account services, remittances, and other in-person banking activities. While back-office operations may continue beyond these hours depending on internal policies, customer-facing services will adhere strictly to the notified schedule.
The Ramadan timetable reflects a balance between operational efficiency and public convenience. By setting a continuous service window without a formal break, the central bank aims to streamline customer flow and minimize delays. The shorter Friday schedule aligns with customary adjustments made during the holy month, allowing institutions to accommodate congregational prayers and other religious observances.
Each year, banking hours during Ramadan draw significant public attention, particularly from businesses managing payroll cycles, traders handling daily cash transactions, and individuals scheduling financial commitments. Early notification of revised hours enables customers to plan branch visits accordingly and avoid last-minute disruptions.
In addition to branch operations, digital banking channels such as internet banking platforms, mobile banking applications, and ATM networks are expected to remain available as per standard service levels. While the announcement focuses on public dealing hours at physical branches, electronic channels continue to operate around the clock, providing customers with alternative options for routine transactions.
The State Bank of Pakistan’s communication on Ramadan timings forms part of its broader regulatory oversight and coordination role within the financial sector. By issuing standardized instructions, the central bank ensures uniformity in branch-level operations across the banking network, reducing confusion and promoting compliance among financial institutions.
As Ramadan-ul-Mubarak 2026 approaches, customers are advised to take note of the revised schedule and plan their banking activities within the announced hours. The adjusted timetable will remain in effect for the duration of the holy month, after which banks are expected to revert to their regular working hours as notified by the central bank.
The announcement underscores the banking sector’s commitment to maintaining service continuity while respecting the spiritual and social rhythms associated with Ramadan, ensuring that essential financial services remain accessible across Pakistan.
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