KARACHI, Nov 15: The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has announced that designated bank branches across the country will remain open today (Saturday) to facilitate the timely collection of the second instalment of Haj dues from intending pilgrims for the 2026 Haj season.
In a press release issued on Friday, the SBP said: “It has been decided on the request of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony that all branches designated for Haj operations shall remain open from 9am to 2:30pm on Saturday, Nov 15, to facilitate the deposit of Haj dues (second instalment) by intending pilgrims.”
The special opening aims to ensure that applicants do not face any delays in meeting the ministry’s schedule for instalment payments, particularly as a large number of selected pilgrims are completing formalities ahead of the final confirmation of their Haj arrangements. The ministry had earlier informed successful applicants under the government Haj scheme to submit the second instalment within the stipulated deadline to maintain their eligibility.
The State Bank of Pakistan has decided to open designated branches on Saturday (today) for the collection of dues (second instalment) for next year’s Haj.https://t.co/hXQT71316h
— Dawn.com (@dawn_com) November 15, 2025
Banks participating in the Haj operations include major commercial institutions such as National Bank of Pakistan, Habib Bank, United Bank, MCB, and several Islamic banks. These banks have set up dedicated Haj counters to handle deposits, verify documents, and address queries regarding the government scheme.
Banking officials said that keeping branches open on a non-working day would help prevent overcrowding and accommodate pilgrims who face difficulty visiting banks on weekdays due to work or travel constraints. “This step will significantly ease the rush and help ensure smooth processing,” a senior bank officer said.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has also advised applicants to bring their CNICs, original deposit slips from the first instalment, and any relevant documentation to avoid delays. Those applying through the sponsorship scheme are required to follow additional remittance procedures outlined earlier by the ministry.
Meanwhile, the SBP has issued internal instructions to ensure adequate staffing, uninterrupted digital services, and the availability of currency handling facilities during Saturday’s extended hours.
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The decision to open banks on the weekend reflects the government’s push to streamline Haj arrangements well ahead of time, particularly after last year’s complaints about overburdened branches and long queues.
Officials have urged all intending pilgrims to complete payments within the given timeframe, noting that no extensions are expected beyond the announced deadline.
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