Banks to remain closed on 1st Ramadan in Pakistan. The State Bank of Pakistan announced on Friday that banks across the country will suspend public dealings on the 1st of Ramadan-ul-Mubarak, 1445 A.H., which is anticipated to fall on Tuesday, March 12.
This closure is designated as a ‘Bank Holiday’ for the deduction of Zakat, as stated in an official notification released by the central bank.
While the closure applies to all banks, including development financial institutions (DFIs) and microfinance banks (MFBs), it is important to note that employees of these institutions are required to report to work as usual, treating the holiday as a normal working day.
In addition to the banking holiday announcement, anticipation for the commencement of the holy month of Ramadan is building across Pakistan.
Weather expert Jawad Memon has forecasted that although the moon for Ramadan will be sighted on March 10, it will only be visible to the naked eye on March 11.
The first taraweeh prayers are expected to take place on the night of March 11, with the first day of fasting likely to begin on March 12.
Traditionally, the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will convene in Islamabad, along with zonal committees in their respective regions, to receive and evaluate moon sighting reports, ultimately announcing the official start of Ramadan.
As banks to remain closed on 1st Ramadan in Pakistan, during this sacred month, observed with profound religious devotion, millions of Pakistanis, alongside billions of Muslims worldwide, will observe fasting from dawn until sunset.
Fasting durations typically range between 12 to 17 hours, varying based on geographical location.
