PkRevenue.com — The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on Wednesday officially declared bank holidays on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha 2024, providing a break for banking sector employees and facilitating nationwide celebrations.
The central bank announced that it will remain closed from June 17 to June 19, 2024, which falls on Monday to Wednesday, marking these days as public holidays for Eid-ul-Adha.
In a formal circular issued to presidents and chief executives of all banks, development financial institutions, and microfinance banks, the SBP communicated the holiday schedule. The circular emphasized that all banking institutions, including branches, head offices, and regional offices, will be non-operational during these dates.
The announcement allows employees in the banking sector to observe the religious festivities of Eid-ul-Adha with their families. This period is significant for Muslims across Pakistan as they engage in religious rituals, including the sacrificial ceremony known as Qurbani, which commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah.
The SBP’s decision to close banks during Eid-ul-Adha ensures that banking professionals have the opportunity to fully participate in the celebrations and fulfill their religious duties. It also underscores the importance of Eid-ul-Adha in the cultural and religious landscape of Pakistan.
Customers and businesses are advised to plan their financial transactions accordingly, ensuring that all necessary banking activities are completed before the commencement of the holidays. The SBP has urged the public to utilize digital banking services and ATMs, which will remain operational to a certain extent, to mitigate any inconvenience during the holiday period.
Moreover, the SBP has instructed banks to ensure that ATMs are stocked with sufficient cash to meet the increased demand during the holidays. Customers are encouraged to use online banking services for transactions and payments to avoid any disruptions.
Eid-ul-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is one of the most significant Islamic holidays, celebrated with much fervor and devotion. It is a time for community gatherings, prayers, and sharing with the less fortunate, emphasizing the values of sacrifice, compassion, and charity.
The announcement by the SBP is in line with the federal government’s holiday schedule, which designates these days as public holidays for Eid-ul-Adha. The move reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that citizens can observe religious traditions without professional obligations interfering.
As Pakistan prepares for the joyous occasion of Eid-ul-Adha, the SBP’s announcement provides clarity and allows for a smooth transition into the holiday period, ensuring that banking operations resume seamlessly once the holidays conclude.