Banks across Pakistan will remain closed for three days this week due to the Independence Day holiday and the regular weekend break.
The State Bank of Pakistan has announced that banks will be closed on Friday, August 14, 2026. The day will be observed as a public holiday for Independence Day.
The holiday will be followed by the usual Saturday and Sunday weekly holidays, on August 15 and 16. As a result, physical bank branches will remain closed from Friday to Sunday.
When will regular banking services resume?
Regular banking services are expected to resume on Monday, August 17. This will be after the three day holiday on August 14, 15 and 16.
Customers who need to visit a bank branch or use services that require a physical visit are advised to complete their work before Friday.
The three-day closure will mainly affect physical bank branches. Digital banking services may continue to work during the holidays. However, their availability may vary from one bank to another.
Public holiday on August 14
The Punjab government has announced a public holiday across the province on Friday, August 14, 2026, to mark Pakistan’s Independence Day.
According to a notification issued by the Services and General Administration Department, government offices and most public institutions will remain closed on the day. Regular office work will also be suspended.
Most offices and institutions under the Punjab government will not carry out normal activities on August 14.
The Sindh government has also announced August 14 as a public holiday across the province.
According to the official notification, government and semi-government offices in Sindh will remain closed. Corporations and local councils will also observe the holiday.
The government said the holiday will give people a chance to celebrate Independence Day. However, offices and institutions providing essential public services will continue to operate.
August 14: Pakistan’s Independence Day
National flags will be displayed at government buildings, important roads and other places across the province. Government and private organisations will also hold special events to mark Independence Day.