Commercial banks across Pakistan will open selected branches on Saturday, February 28, from 9am to 1pm, following directions issued by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).
The move comes after a request from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to facilitate taxpayers in making over-the-counter payments of government duties and taxes.
Designated branches, including National Bank branches handling customs collections, will remain open during the specified hours to ensure the smooth processing of government transactions.
According to the statement, banks have been instructed to keep relevant branches open for as long as required to support the Special Clearing for Government Transactions conducted by NIFT.
The central bank also directed banks to ensure the uninterrupted availability of internet banking, mobile applications, ATMs, and other digital platforms for the online payment of government duties and taxes.
Earlier, the State Bank of Pakistan announced revised office and banking hours for Ramadan 2026, which will be observed by banks, development finance institutions, and microfinance banks across the country.
Under the revised schedule, SBP offices will operate from 9am to 3pm, Monday to Thursday, without any break, while on Fridays they will function from 9am to 12:30pm.
For public dealing during the ongoing month of Ramadan, banks will remain open from 9am to 2pm, Monday to Thursday, without any break, while Friday hours will be observed from 9am to 12:30pm.
