Banks to Operate Partially During Eid Holidays

Bangladesh Bank has issued new guidelines directing commercial banks to maintain limited operations during the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays, with the exception of the actual day of Eid. The directive was released on Monday, 16 March, by the Supervisory Data Management and Analytics Department (SDMAD) of the central bank, and subsequently circulated to the managing directors of all scheduled banks.

Holiday Banking Guidelines

The central bank’s instructions aim to ensure uninterrupted import and export-related transactions, particularly in critical transport hubs. Accordingly, from 17 to 23 March, bank branches, sub-branches, and booths located in sea, land, and airport areas are required to remain open on a limited basis, including on public and weekly holidays.

Special provisions have been made for industrial regions, where certain branches will operate during restricted hours to support commercial activities.

Special Industrial Branch Schedule

The directive highlights that key industrial zones in Savar, Gazipur, Tongi, Ashulia, Bhaluka, Narayanganj, and Chattogram will benefit from extended branch services on 18 and 19 March. On these days, banking operations will commence at 10:00 am and conclude at 2:00 pm, though customer-facing transactions will be restricted to 10:00 am to 1:00 pm to accommodate a 15-minute Jumu’ah prayer interval.

Outside these industrial zones and specific dates, banks are granted discretion to determine customer transaction hours.

Bangladesh Bank emphasises that all branches will remain completely closed on 21 March, coinciding with Eid-ul-Fitr itself. These measures are intended to balance the holiday observance with essential banking functions, ensuring that commercial and trade activities continue without major disruption during the festive period.