Bank hours in Ramadan: everything you need to know

KARACHI: The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has officially announced revised office and business hours for banks across the country in observance of Ramadan 1447 AH, introducing a special schedule aimed at facilitating customers during the holy month.

In a statement issued by the central bank’s spokesperson, it was confirmed that all commercial banks, development financial institutions (DFIs), and microfinance banks nationwide, and the SBP itself, will operate under uniform timings as prescribed by the central bank.

REVISED OFFICE HOURS

According to the notification, from Monday to Thursday, banks will remain open from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM without any break. During these hours, customers will have uninterrupted access to essential banking services.

On Fridays, banks will operate from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM, also without a break, in consideration of congregational prayers and the unique schedule observed during Ramadan.

The SBP noted that these timings will be strictly implemented at all banking branches across Pakistan. Formal instructions have been issued to ensure full compliance by all relevant institutions.

PUBLIC CONVENIENCE A PRIORITY

The central bank said that the revised schedule has been carefully designed to ensure convenience for the public while maintaining smooth banking operations during Ramadan. The adjustment reflects the religious and social considerations associated with the holy month, when working patterns and daily routines shift across the country.

“Keeping in view the needs of customers during Ramadan, this special arrangement has been made to facilitate smooth conduct of banking transactions,” the spokesperson said.

The SBP clarified that after Ramadan ends, banks will revert to their pre-Ramadan working hours. Any further changes or updates will be communicated to the public in a timely manner through official channels.

As is customary each year, banking hours are adjusted during Ramadan to ensure orderly operations while accommodating the spiritual and social commitments of employees and customers alike.