The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has announced that all banks across the country will remain closed for public dealing on the first working day of Ramadan 1446 AH for Zakat deduction purposes. However, employees of banks, DFIs (Development Finance Institutions), and MFBs (Microfinance Banks) will continue their official duties as usual, treating it as a regular working day except for customer transactions.
Official Notification Expected Soon
The Central Bank is set to release an official notification regarding the Bank Holiday within the next few days. This annual practice is observed to facilitate the deduction of Zakat from eligible bank accounts, as per Islamic financial regulations in Pakistan.
Expected Date of First Ramadan in Pakistan
The holy month of Ramadan in Pakistan is anticipated to begin on March 2, 2025, as per astronomical predictions. The crescent moon is expected to be visible on the evening of March 1, 2025, according to the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO). Experts suggest that the new moon will emerge on February 28, 2025, at 5:45 PM (PST), making moon sighting possible on March 1.
Impact of the Bank Holiday
- No Public Transactions: Banking services such as cash withdrawals, deposits, and fund transfers at physical branches will not be available on the first working day of Ramadan 1446 AH.
- Alternative Banking Options: Customers can still access ATM services, mobile banking, and online banking platforms for financial transactions.
- Regular Operations for Employees: Despite the public holiday, all bank employees will report to work and manage internal assignments.
The SBP Bank Holiday on the first Ramadan of 2025 aligns with the annual tradition of Zakat deduction in Pakistan’s banking system. Customers are advised to plan their transactions accordingly and utilize digital banking services on the day when physical banking operations will be halted.
Stay tuned for the official SBP notification confirming the date of the Bank Holiday.
 has announced that all banks across the country will remain closed for public dealing on the first working day of Ramadan 1446 AH for Zakat deduction purposes.){kind=link}