Karachi, August 13, 2025 – The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has issued fresh directives to ensure smooth facilitation for intending pilgrims applying for Hajj 2026.
On Wednesday, the SBP instructed all designated commercial banks to open their selected branches on Saturday, August 16, 2025, to receive Hajj applications without interruption.
According to an official circular, the SBP, acting on the request of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, has ordered 14 nominated banks to keep their concerned branches operational from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. across the country. This special measure aims to accommodate the expected rush of applicants and to provide timely processing of documents.
The SBP emphasized that these instructions apply exclusively to the designated branches handling Hajj applications, ensuring that pilgrims have sufficient opportunity to submit their forms and required documentation. Banks are also directed to make necessary arrangements for customer convenience during the extended service hours.
In a separate notification, the SBP announced that Thursday, August 14, 2025, will be observed as a bank holiday nationwide, marking Pakistan’s Independence Day. All banks, including the central bank, will remain closed on this day, in line with the public holiday declared by the Government of Pakistan.
These directives reflect the SBP’s ongoing efforts to streamline public services and coordinate with banks for important national and religious events.