United Bank Limited (UBL), one of Pakistan’s leading commercial banks, has taken a bold step in customer service by announcing that selected branches across the country will now remain open on Sundays. The initiative, revealed through the bank’s official social media platforms, is aimed at making banking more accessible and convenient in today’s increasingly fast-paced and customer-focused financial environment.
UBL stated that these selected branches will operate for six hours every Sunday, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., allowing customers to avail a variety of in-branch banking services during the weekend. This move positions UBL as the first major bank in Pakistan to formally extend its in-person banking operations into Sundays, a day traditionally observed as a non-working day across most sectors in the country.
The bank’s message read, “Banking services available for you every day of the week,” underscoring its commitment to staying ahead in customer engagement and satisfaction. While some banks already operate selected branches on Saturdays, UBL’s move to include Sunday banking is a notable first in the Pakistani financial sector, reflecting both growing competition and shifting consumer expectations.
As the financial services landscape in Pakistan becomes increasingly digital and customer-driven, banks are under pressure to innovate not only in technology but also in how and when they deliver services. UBL’s Sunday operations could mark the beginning of a new trend in retail banking — one where accessibility and extended service hours become standard.
This decision comes in the backdrop of intensifying competition among Pakistani banks. In recent weeks, another commercial bank announced that it would be keeping select branches open for extended hours on weekdays, operating from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. These moves suggest that institutions are racing to reimagine traditional banking hours to accommodate customers’ modern schedules and lifestyle needs.
The announcement also highlights the evolving role of physical bank branches in a digital-first era. While online and mobile banking services continue to grow rapidly, the demand for in-person services — particularly for transactions that require documentation or advisory — remains strong. UBL’s expanded operating days aim to fill this gap by offering a hybrid approach that supports both digital and in-person customer needs.
The bank has released a list of the specific branches that will remain open on Sundays, accessible through its website and digital channels. These branches are likely to be located in high-traffic urban centers, where demand for weekend banking is highest due to business activity and consumer mobility.
Industry watchers believe that UBL’s latest move could prompt other major banks to follow suit, potentially redefining standard banking operations in Pakistan. As customers increasingly value flexibility and ease of access, banking institutions that adapt quickly to these preferences may see a boost in loyalty and market share.
UBL’s decision to open on Sundays reflects its broader strategy to enhance customer convenience while setting new benchmarks in service innovation within Pakistan’s modern banking ecosystem.