SBP directs banks to stay open over the weekend for Hajj 2025 applications

To assist intending pilgrims for Hajj 2025, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has instructed 15 designated banks to keep their branches open this Saturday and Sunday. The move comes as part of the government’s initiative to facilitate the timely submission of Hajj applications and related dues.

The last date for submitting Hajj applications, along with the required dues, is December 3, 2024. To ensure that intending pilgrims have sufficient time to complete the process, the SBP has directed the designated banks to extend their working hours over the weekend.

According to the SBP’s directive, the concerned branches will remain open from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on both November 30, 2024, and December 1, 2024. The central bank issued this order following a request from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony to support the applicants in meeting the deadline.