Is Bank Closed or Open Tomorrow on 19 Feb 2026 – SBP Notification
Yes, banks across Pakistan will remain closed for public dealing on Thursday, February 19, 2026, in observance of the 1st of Ramadan 1447 AH.
The decision was officially announced by the State Bank of Pakistan through BPRD Circular Letter No. 04 dated February 17, 2026. The closure is specifically for the annual Zakat deduction process.
Here’s everything you need to know in detail.
Why Are Banks Closed on 1st Ramadan?
Every year, on the first day of Ramadan, banks in Pakistan observe a “Bank Holiday” for the purpose of deducting Zakat from eligible accounts under the Zakat and Ushr Ordinance.
What This Means
- All commercial banks
- Microfinance Banks (MFBs)
- Development Finance Institutions (DFIs)
will be closed to the public for all branch services.
However, this is not a general holiday for bank staff.
Are Bank Employees Off?
No.
Although branches remain closed for customers, it is considered a normal working day for bank employees.
Staff members must:
- Attend office
- Process internal transactions
- Complete Zakat-related deductions
- Handle system updates and reconciliation
Zakat Nisab 2026 – Important Threshold
The Ministry of Poverty Alleviation has set the Zakat Nisab for 2026 at Rs 503,529.
How Zakat Deduction Works
Zakat will only be deducted from:
- Savings accounts
- Profit & Loss sharing accounts
Condition:
If the account balance equals or exceeds Rs 503,529 on the first day of Ramadan.
If your balance is below this amount, no Zakat will be deducted.
Revised Ramadan Banking Hours (Starting Friday, February 20, 2026)
Once branches reopen for public dealing, banks will follow shortened Ramadan timings:
| Days | Office Hours | Public Dealing Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Monday – Thursday | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM | 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM |
| Friday | 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM | 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM |
These timings apply throughout Ramadan unless further notification is issued by the State Bank.
Will Digital Banking Work on the Bank Holiday?
Yes.
Even though branches are closed:
- ATMs will remain operational
- Mobile banking apps will function normally
- Internet banking services will remain active
- Online fund transfers will continue
However, due to higher demand, some ATMs may experience temporary cash shortages.
Cheque Clearing & Transactions
If you submit a cheque on:
- February 18 (late hours)
- February 19 (Bank Holiday)
It will most likely be processed on the next working day, Friday, February 20, 2026.
Plan urgent transactions accordingly.
Is There a Bank Holiday in Pakistan Today?
If today is February 19, 2026 (1st Ramadan), then yes, it is officially a Bank Holiday for public dealing.
If today is any other date, you should verify the official calendar issued by the State Bank.
Are Banks Closed During Ramadan?
No, not entirely.
Banks remain operational during Ramadan but follow reduced working hours. The only full branch closure for public dealing is typically on the 1st of Ramadan for Zakat deduction.
1 January 2026 & 2 January 2026 Bank Holidays
Typically:
- January 1 is observed as a bank holiday (New Year bank closing day for public dealing).
- January 2 may be a working day unless specifically notified.
Always check the official State Bank annual holiday circular for confirmation.
What Is the Salary of OG-5 in SBP?
While exact figures vary based on allowances and revisions:
An OG-5 (Officer Grade 5) at the State Bank of Pakistan typically receives:
- Competitive basic salary
- House rent allowance
- Utilities allowance
- Medical benefits
- Performance bonuses
- Pension benefits
The total monthly package can range significantly depending on experience and posting location. SBP is considered one of the highest-paying public sector institutions in Pakistan.
Clarification on SBP Circulars & News
If you are searching for:
- SBP Pension Circular
- SBP MDR Circular
- State Bank notification updates
- Emergency notifications
These are officially published on the State Bank’s website and through circular letters.
Always rely on official SBP communications rather than social media rumors.
Important Tips for Customers
- Withdraw emergency cash in advance
- Avoid urgent cheque deposits on Bank Holiday
- Use digital banking channels
- Expect higher ATM usage
Summary
- February 19, 2026 is a Bank Holiday for public dealing.
- Zakat will be deducted from eligible accounts above Rs 503,529.
- Bank staff will work internally.
- Digital banking services remain active.
- Regular public dealing resumes February 20 under Ramadan timings.
