The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has announced that all banks, development finance institutions, and microfinance banks across the country will remain closed for four consecutive days from Friday, March 20, 2026, to Monday, March 23, 2026. This extended closure is due to a combination of Eid-ul-Fitr holidays, the weekly weekend, and Pakistan Day.
Breakdown of Holiday Schedule
According to the official notification, the four-day closure will be observed as follows:
- Friday, March 20, 2026 – Eid-ul-Fitr Holiday
- Saturday, March 21, 2026 – Eid-ul-Fitr Holiday
- Sunday, March 22, 2026 – Weekly Holiday
- Monday, March 23, 2026 – Pakistan Day (Public Holiday)
All banking institutions will remain closed for public dealings during these dates.
Read Also: Pakistan Government Announces Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 Public Holidays
Pakistan Day Observance on March 23
The final day of the holidays, March 23, is observed annually as Pakistan Day, marking the historic Lahore Resolution of 1940. On this day, public and private institutions across the country remain closed to commemorate the occasion.
Impact on Banking Services
During the four-day closure, customers will not be able to access over-the-counter services such as:
- Cash deposits and withdrawals from bank branches
- Cheque clearing services
- In-branch transactions
However, ATM services, mobile banking apps, and online banking platforms are expected to remain fully operational, allowing users to carry out essential financial transactions.
Eid-ul-Fitr Expected Around March 21
Eid-ul-Fitr is expected to fall around Saturday, March 21, 2026, although the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will confirm the final date after the official moon sighting.
Authorities have already issued holiday notifications in anticipation of the festival, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
Advisory for Bank Customers
Customers are advised to plan their financial activities to avoid inconvenience during the closure period. It is recommended to:
- Withdraw necessary cash before March 20, 2026
- Complete urgent banking transactions earlier
- Use digital banking channels during the holidays
