Banks across Pakistan will remain closed on Monday, November 9, as the country observes Allama Iqbal Day.
The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has confirmed the closure through an official circular issued on November 3. The announcement applies to all banks, development finance institutions and microfinance banks.
SBP Confirms Nationwide Bank Holiday
According to the central bank, November 9 will be observed as a public holiday to mark the birth anniversary of national poet and philosopher Allama Muhammad Iqbal.
The SBP issued the circular to the presidents and chief executives of banks and other financial institutions. It confirmed that the central bank itself would also remain closed on the day.
Consequently, customers will not be able to access routine in-person banking services through branch counters.
Customers Advised to Plan Transactions
The holiday falls on a Monday, immediately after the regular Saturday and Sunday weekend. Therefore, banks following the standard weekend schedule will remain closed for three consecutive days, from November 7 to 9.
Customers who need branch-based services should complete their transactions before the weekend. These may include cash deposits, cheque-related services and other activities requiring in-person assistance.
However, digital banking services, mobile applications and ATMs may remain available according to individual banks’ arrangements.
Pakistan Observes Allama Iqbal Day
Allama Iqbal Day is observed annually on November 9 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal. Born in Sialkot in 1877, Iqbal was a prominent poet, philosopher and thinker whose ideas influenced the Pakistan Movement.
The country observes the day through national commemorations and public events honouring his literary and intellectual contributions. Normal banking operations are expected to resume on Tuesday, November 10.
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