SBP Announces Bank Timings for Ramadan 2026 in Pakistan
The State Bank of Pakistan has officially released revised Ramadan 2026 banking hours through a circular issued on February 16, 2026.
The updated schedule applies nationwide to:
- All commercial banks
- Development Finance Institutions (DFIs)
- Microfinance Banks (MFBs)
These timings will take effect from 1st Ramadan 1447 AH (expected Thursday, February 19, 2026), subject to the official moon sighting announcement.
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Here is the full and verified breakdown.
1️⃣ Public Dealing (Banking) Hours – Ramadan 2026
These are the hours during which bank branches will be open for customer transactions such as deposits, withdrawals, remittances, drafts, and account services.
Monday to Thursday
9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
This provides customers with a five-hour public dealing window on regular weekdays and a reduced window on Fridays.
After these hours, branches close counters for customers but continue internal operations.
2️⃣ Office (Staff) Working Hours – Ramadan 2026
Bank employees will follow slightly extended hours to manage operational responsibilities.
Monday to Thursday
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
These extended staff hours allow banks to complete:
- Interbank clearing
- Internal reconciliations
- Treasury operations
- Regulatory reporting
- Cash management
3️⃣ Bank Holiday on 1st Ramadan – Zakat Deduction Day
The SBP has also declared a Bank Holiday on the 1st of Ramadan for Zakat deduction purposes.
Public Dealing
- All banks will remain closed to customers on this day.
Staff Attendance
- It is a normal working day for employees.
- Staff must report to work for internal processing.
Expected Date
- Thursday, February 19, 2026 (subject to moon sighting confirmation).
4️⃣ Zakat Nisab for 2026 (1447 AH)
The Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety has fixed the Zakat Nisab for 2026 at:
Rs. 503,529
Deduction Details
- Rate: 2.5%
- Applicable to:
- Savings accounts
- Profit & Loss Sharing (PLS) accounts
- Similar eligible deposit accounts
If your balance equals or exceeds Rs. 503,529 on the first day of Ramadan, Zakat will be automatically deducted.
Zakat Exemptions
The following are exempt from automatic deduction:
- Current accounts
- Customers who have submitted a valid CZ-50 Zakat Exemption Declaration Form
Those seeking exemption must ensure documentation is properly submitted before deduction day.
Why Banking Hours Are Shortened in Ramadan
Each year, the SBP revises working hours to:
- Accommodate fasting employees
- Reduce operational strain
- Align with shorter working cycles
- Maintain essential financial services
After Eid-ul-Fitr holidays, banks automatically revert to regular pre-Ramadan hours.
Customer Advisory – How to Avoid Long Queues
Due to shorter public dealing hours, branches experience peak congestion between:
11:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Smart Planning Tips
- Visit branches before 10:30 AM
- Avoid Fridays unless necessary
- Use mobile banking for routine transfers
- Withdraw cash early before weekends
- Utilize Raast instant transfer services
Digital Banking During Ramadan 2026
The following services remain fully operational 24/7:
- ATMs
- Mobile banking apps
- Internet banking portals
- IBFT & Raast transfers
- Utility bill payments
- Call center support
Digital channels are strongly recommended during Ramadan to avoid branch rush.
Quick Summary – Ramadan Bank Timing 2026 Pakistan
- Public dealing: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Mon–Thu)
- Friday public dealing: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
- Staff hours extend beyond customer hours
- 1st Ramadan: Public bank holiday for Zakat deduction
- Zakat Nisab 2026: Rs. 503,529
- Deduction rate: 2.5%
The State Bank of Pakistan Ramadan 2026 circular ensures operational continuity while facilitating religious obligations.
