On December 30, 2025, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) issued Circular Letter No. 26 of 2025, announcing a bank holiday on January 1, 2026. This notice requires all commercial banks, microfinance banks, and development finance institutions to remain closed for public dealing on that day. The decision affects normal banking operations and means customers will not be able to conduct in-person transactions at SBP or its regulated banks on New Year’s Day.
SBP’s official announcement, shared through its Banking Policy & Regulations Department, confirmed that the institution will observe January 1, 2026 as a bank holiday. This closure aligns with the national calendar and gives bank staff and customers a public holiday to mark the start of the new year. The circular directs bank presidents and chief executives to adjust schedules and inform branches ahead of time so that no confusion arises about services on that date.
This move is consistent with previous SBP notices that declared public holidays for banks, especially at year-end or around major national events. In 2025 alone, multiple circular letters from SBP outlined other official bank holidays, including earlier in the year. These notices help banks manage operations, staffing, and customer expectations.
In addition to holiday announcements, the SBP regularly updates policies that shape Pakistan’s financial landscape. Throughout 2025, its circulars covered a wide range of regulatory and operational matters, from corporate governance changes to upgraded auditing panels and public holiday schedules. These notices strengthen the framework within which banks and financial institutions operate, ensuring compliance with SBP’s standards.
For everyday customers, the January 1 bank holiday means planning ahead for routine transactions such as cash withdrawals, deposits, account openings, or loan inquiries. However, digital and mobile banking services are expected to remain functional, so customers can still manage accounts online even when physical branches are closed. This reflects a broader trend where SBP and banks encourage electronic banking use and financial inclusion across Pakistan.
