The State Bank of Pakistan instructs commercial banks to keep designated branches functional on Saturday and Sunday. This move is to assist citizens with over the counter tax and duty payments.
The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) announced that specific commercial bank branches across the country will remain open on Saturday, May 23, and Sunday, May 24, 2026.
According to an official SBP circular, the central bank took this decision following a formal request from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). The temporary schedule aims to assist taxpayers in processing over the counter payments for government duties and taxes ahead of upcoming fiscal deadlines.
Working Hours and Branch Schedule
According to the central bank directives, the weekend operation applies to all commercial bank branches that regularly operate on Saturdays. The National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) branches that handle customs collections will also follow this special schedule.
The SBP statement outlined the operating terms for the two-day period:
- Timings: Active branches will observe working hours from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM on both Saturday and Sunday.
- Clearing Facilities: The SBP directed banks to keep relevant branches open on Sunday, May 24, until National Industrial Fluctuations and Trends (NIFT) completes the special clearing facilities needed for government financial transactions.
Digital Payment Availability
According to central bank officials, commercial banks must simultaneously ensure the continuous operation of all online transaction tools. Bank IT departments have been instructed to monitor alternate delivery channels, including:
- Internet banking portals
- Mobile banking applications
- Automated teller machines (ATMs)
- Digital payment gateways
SBP representatives stated that these online platforms must provide uninterrupted services over the weekend to help citizens clear their tax liabilities remotely without visiting physical branches.
