Bank Holidays in Pakistan February 2026 – Full Schedule

In February 2026, banks across Pakistan will observe two official holidays when public banking services will remain closed. These holidays include Kashmir Solidarity Day on 5 February and a bank-only holiday for Zakat deduction on 18 February. During these days, customers cannot perform transactions at bank branches, but digital banking services and ATMs remain operational.

Understanding the bank holiday schedule helps individuals, businesses, and organizations plan their financial activities effectively.

Date	Day	Holiday	Type
5 February 2026	Thursday	Kashmir Solidarity Day	Public/Bank Holiday
18 February 2026	Wednesday	Bank Holiday (Zakat Deduction)	Bank-only Holiday
Notes	–	ATMs and digital banking remain operational	–
Punjab Region	–	Possible extended closure for Basant Festival (regional)	Regional Observance
SBP Announcement	–	Confirmed closure for all commercial banks	Official
Microfinance Banks	–	Will follow SBP holiday schedule	Official
Development Finance Institutions	–	Closed on 5 February 2026	Official
Customer Services	–	Not available during holidays	–

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Kashmir Solidarity Day – Bank Holiday on 5 February 2026

Kashmir Solidarity Day is a national public holiday in Pakistan, and the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has confirmed that all banks, microfinance banks, and development finance institutions will remain closed on this day.

Key points about this holiday:

Observed nationwide to express solidarity with the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
No customer transactions at physical branches.
ATMs and digital banking services remain functional.
Helps banks and employees participate in official programs and observances.

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Bank Holiday for Zakat Deduction – 18 February 2026

On Wednesday, 18 February 2026, banks will remain closed for public dealings due to Zakat deduction, which depends on the sighting of the Ramadan moon.

Important points include:

Branches are closed for customer transactions only.
Bank employees usually attend work for internal operations.
Zakat deduction ensures compliance with Islamic financial regulations.
Digital banking services remain available, allowing transfers and online payments.

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Regional Bank Holidays – Basant Festival in Punjab

In addition to national bank holidays, Punjab province may have regional bank closures due to the Basant Festival on 6 February 2026.

Highlights:

Observed primarily in Lahore and surrounding areas.
Usually applies to local branches only, not nationwide.
Banks coordinate with the State Bank of Pakistan for holiday notifications.
Customers can still use online banking to avoid disruption.

Digital Banking and ATM Services During Bank Holidays

Even when branches are closed, customers can use alternative banking channels.

Bullet points:

ATMs remain fully functional for cash withdrawals and balance inquiries.
Mobile banking apps allow fund transfers, bill payments, and mobile top-ups.
Internet banking platforms continue operations without interruption.
Encourages a shift towards digital transactions during holidays.

Why Bank Holidays Are Important for Planning

Knowing the bank holiday schedule in advance helps individuals and businesses plan effectively:

Avoid late payments or fines by scheduling transactions ahead.
Plan Zakat-related financial obligations in advance.
Prepare cash requirements if bank services are unavailable.
Coordinate business operations with suppliers and clients.

Conclusion

In February 2026, Pakistan observes two bank holidays—Kashmir Solidarity Day on 5 February and Bank Holiday for Zakat Deduction on 18 February. While bank branches remain closed, ATMs and digital banking services continue to operate. Regional holidays like the Basant Festival in Punjab may affect branch availability locally. Planning ahead ensures smooth financial operations during these official holidays.

For official updates on bank holidays, visit the State Bank of Pakistan:
👉 https://www.sbp.org.pk