SBP to remain closed on July 16-17 for Ashura

Announcement follows federal government's decision on Tuesday to declare the same dates as public holidays

The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has announced a two-day public holiday on July 16 and 17 in observance of Ashura.

The central bank will be closed on these dates to mark the 9th and 10th of Muharram 1446 AH.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the SBP confirmed, "The State Bank of Pakistan will remain closed on July 16th and 17th, 2024 (Tuesday & Wednesday) being public holidays on the occasion of Ashura."

This announcement follows the federal government's decision on Tuesday to declare the same dates as public holidays for Muharram 9 and 10.

The observance of Ashura, a significant period in the Islamic calendar, is marked by mourning and remembrance.