The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has officially announced that all banks, Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), and Microfinance Banks (MFBs) across Pakistan will remain closed on Thursday, February 5, 2026, on account of Kashmir Day.
The closure has been declared in line with the public holiday announced by the Government of Pakistan, and the directive applies nationwide.
SBP Public Holiday Notification – February 5, 2026
According to the official circular issued to the Presidents and Chief Executives of all Banks, DFIs, and MFBs, the State Bank of Pakistan will observe a complete shutdown on Kashmir Day.
Key Announcement Highlights
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Date: Thursday, February 5, 2026
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Occasion: Kashmir Day
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Institutions Closed:
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State Bank of Pakistan
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All commercial banks
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Development Finance Institutions (DFIs)
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Microfinance Banks (MFBs)
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Scope: Nationwide
As a result, no over-the-counter banking services will be available on this day.
Impact on Banking Services
Due to the public holiday, customers should be aware of the following:
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❌ Bank branches will remain closed
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❌ Clearing, settlement, and interbank transactions will be suspended
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❌ In-branch services such as cash deposits, withdrawals, and cheque processing will not be available
Services That May Remain Available
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✅ ATMs (subject to cash availability)
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✅ Mobile banking apps
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✅ Internet banking services
Customers are advised to complete urgent banking transactions in advance to avoid inconvenience.
Official SBP Statement
The notification was issued under the signature of Muhammad Asad Akbar, Joint Director, State Bank of Pakistan, confirming the closure in observance of the national holiday.
Why Kashmir Day Is Observed
Kashmir Day is observed every year on February 5 to express solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). On this day:
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Government offices remain closed
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Public and private institutions observe a holiday
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Special events, seminars, and rallies are organized nationwide
The observance reflects Pakistan’s continued support for the right to self-determination of the Kashmiri people.
Public Advisory for Customers
To avoid any disruption, SBP advises bank customers to:
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Plan cash withdrawals before February 5
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Schedule cheque clearances and business payments in advance
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Use digital banking services where possible
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Stay updated through official bank notifications
Normal banking operations will resume on Friday, February 6, 2026.
Conclusion
The State Bank of Pakistan’s announcement confirms that February 5, 2026, will be a nationwide banking holiday in observance of Kashmir Day. All banks, DFIs, and microfinance institutions will remain closed, while digital banking services are expected to operate as usual.
Customers and businesses are encouraged to plan accordingly and rely only on official SBP and bank communications for accurate information.
This content is published for general information and awareness purposes. kixxoil.pk is an independent informational website and is not officially connected with any government authority or public institution. Readers are encouraged to confirm details directly from official sources before making any decisions.
