In a special arrangement to facilitate the timely collection of Hajj 2026 dues, designated bank branches across Pakistan will remain open on Saturday, November 15, 2025. The move, implemented at the request of the Ministry of Religious Affairs & Interfaith Harmony, aims to ensure that intending pilgrims can submit the second installment of their Hajj payments without inconvenience.
Authorized branches designated for Hajj operations will operate from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., providing a focused window for pilgrims to complete their financial obligations. This arrangement underscores the government’s commitment to streamlining Hajj-related financial processes and supporting citizens in meeting critical deadlines.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs & Interfaith Harmony has consistently coordinated with banking institutions to facilitate smooth financial transactions for prospective pilgrims. By allowing select bank branches to operate on a weekend, the authorities are addressing challenges faced by citizens who may find it difficult to visit banks during regular weekdays due to professional or personal commitments.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure that Hajj operations, from registration to final travel arrangements, proceed without delays. The collection of dues is a crucial step in the Hajj process, enabling authorities to finalize pilgrim lists, confirm travel arrangements, and ensure compliance with Saudi government regulations.
Banking officials have confirmed that all safety and operational protocols will be maintained during this extended schedule. Staff at the authorized branches will be available to assist pilgrims with payment processing and provide guidance on any documentation requirements. Digital banking channels, while widely used, complement in-branch operations but cannot replace the official submission of Hajj dues for regulatory compliance purposes.
Historically, the collection of Hajj dues in Pakistan has been managed through a combination of bank branches and online systems. While online platforms have eased the process, in-person transactions remain essential for verifying documents, processing installments, and maintaining accurate records in line with Ministry requirements.
The decision to open banks on a Saturday also reflects lessons learned from previous Hajj seasons, where last-minute submissions often led to congestion at branch counters. By providing additional operational hours on a weekend, authorities aim to reduce bottlenecks and ensure that the process is efficient, transparent, and accessible to all intending pilgrims.
Financial experts note that such arrangements highlight the evolving coordination between the banking sector and government agencies in Pakistan. It demonstrates how institutions can adapt operational schedules to meet seasonal and event-specific financial requirements, ultimately supporting citizens in fulfilling religious obligations smoothly.
Pilgrims are advised to visit only the authorized branches and carry the necessary documentation to ensure seamless payment processing. Early submission is encouraged to avoid potential delays and last-minute complications.
Follow the PakBanker Whatsapp Channel for updates across Pakistan’s banking ecosystem.