In an effort to streamline the process for Hajj 2024 applications, authorized banks have been instructed to keep designated branches open on both Saturday and Sunday. The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) issued a statement on Friday, revealing that 15 authorized banks will operate from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm on December 9 and 10.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, aims to facilitate the timely submission of application forms and associated dues for Hajj 2024.

The Ministry had previously granted authorization to 15 banks, including National Bank of Pakistan, Habib Bank, United Bank, MCB Bank, Allied Bank, Bank of Punjab, Bank Alfalah, Zarai Taraqiati Bank, Faysal Bank, Askari Bank, Bank Al-Habib, Habib Metropolitan Bank, Soneri Bank, Meezan Bank, and Bank Islami, to collect application forms and dues from intending pilgrims. This collection period is set from November 27, 2023, to December 12, 2023.