Banks to Remain Closed in Pakistan at the Start of New Year 2026
The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has officially announced that all banks across Pakistan will remain closed for public dealings on January 1, 2026, on account of the New Year bank holiday. The notification was issued on Tuesday, confirming a nationwide closure for customers at the very start of 2026.
This announcement is important for individuals, businesses, and organizations planning banking transactions around the New Year period.
Banks Closed on January 1, 2026 – Official SBP Notification
According to the official notification issued by State Bank of Pakistan, January 1, 2026, will be observed as a bank holiday throughout the country.
Key Points from the SBP Notification
- All banks will remain closed for public dealings
- Applicable across Pakistan
- Effective date: Thursday, January 1, 2026
- Closure applies to all customer-facing services
This means customers will not be able to visit bank branches for over-the-counter transactions on that day.
Which Financial Institutions Will Remain Closed?
The SBP clarified that the bank holiday will apply to all types of financial institutions operating in Pakistan.
Institutions Included
- Commercial banks
- Development Finance Institutions (DFIs)
- Microfinance Banks (MFBs)
All these institutions will remain closed to the public on January 1, 2026.
Will Bank Employees Attend Office?
Yes. While banks will be closed for public dealings, bank employees will attend office as usual.
What This Means
- Internal operations may continue
- Back-office work will be carried out
- No customer transactions at branches
This arrangement ensures that banking systems and internal processes remain functional.
Impact on Customers & Businesses
The bank holiday may affect individuals and businesses that rely on in-branch banking services.
Possible Impact
- No cash deposits or withdrawals at branches
- Cheque clearing may be delayed
- Manual banking services unavailable
- Business transactions may need rescheduling
Customers are advised to plan their banking needs in advance to avoid inconvenience.
Will ATMs and Digital Banking Work?
Although branches will be closed, digital banking services are expected to remain operational.
Services Likely to Remain Available
- ATMs (cash withdrawals)
- Mobile banking apps
- Internet banking
- Fund transfers via digital channels
This is especially relevant as 81% of all digital transactions in Pakistan are now conducted via mobile phones, reflecting the country’s growing shift toward digital banking.
Why Are Banks Closed on January 1?
January 1 is traditionally observed as a bank holiday to mark the beginning of the New Year.
Purpose of the Holiday
- Year-end financial reconciliation
- System updates and audits
- Administrative adjustments
- Observance of New Year
This practice is followed in many countries around the world.
Advice for Customers
To avoid disruption, customers should:
- Complete urgent banking tasks before December 31
- Use ATMs and digital banking on January 1
- Avoid scheduling payments requiring branch visits
- Plan salary disbursements and business payments early
Importance for Businesses & Employers
Businesses are advised to:
- Adjust payment schedules
- Inform staff and vendors in advance
- Ensure sufficient cash flow before the holiday
Proper planning can help avoid operational delays at the start of 2026.
Growing Role of Digital Banking in Pakistan
The bank holiday also highlights the increasing importance of digital financial services in Pakistan.
With most transactions now happening online:
- Customers face less inconvenience during holidays
- Banking remains accessible 24/7
- Dependence on physical branches continues to decline
This shift supports greater financial inclusion and convenience.
Final Words
The announcement that banks will remain closed on January 1, 2026, comes as part of the standard New Year bank holiday observed nationwide. While all banks, DFIs, and microfinance banks will be closed for public dealings, employees will attend office, and digital banking services are expected to function normally.
Banks Closed on New Year 2026 in Pakistan – FAQs
1. Will banks be closed on January 1, 2026, in Pakistan?
Yes. All banks in Pakistan will remain closed for public dealings on January 1, 2026, due to the New Year bank holiday.
2. Who announced the bank holiday?
The holiday was officially announced by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) through a formal notification.
3. Which financial institutions will be closed?
The following institutions will be closed to the public:
Commercial banks
Development Finance Institutions (DFIs)
Microfinance Banks (MFBs)
4. Will bank employees work on January 1, 2026?
Yes. Bank employees will attend office as usual, but no public or customer-facing services will be available at branches.
5. Can customers visit bank branches on January 1?
No. All branches will be closed for public dealings, so customers cannot visit branches for deposits, withdrawals, or other services.
