In preparation for the holy month of Ramadan, Bangladesh Bank has announced revised office and transaction timings for all commercial banks across the country. The new schedule is designed to facilitate both staff and customers during the fasting period, ensuring banking services remain accessible while accommodating prayer times.
According to the circular issued on Tuesday, 10 February, by the Supervisory Data Management and Analytics Department of Bangladesh Bank, banking transactions during Ramadan will operate from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., while office hours will extend from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. All scheduled banks are expected to observe these timings throughout the month.
The circular also stipulates that there will be a short break for the Dhuhr (midday) prayer between 1:15 p.m. and 1:30 p.m., during which banks are required to maintain alternative arrangements to continue customer service and essential transactions.
For comparison, under normal circumstances, banking transactions are conducted from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., while office hours run from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. This annual adjustment ensures that the workday aligns more closely with the needs of fasting staff and customers.
The following table summarises the regular and Ramadan schedules:
| Activity | Normal Hours | Ramadan Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Banking Transactions | 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. | 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. |
| Office Hours | 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. | 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. |
| Prayer Break | None | 1:15 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. |
Bangladesh Bank officials explained that the schedule has been set in advance to allow banks, staff, and customers to prepare for the upcoming fasting period. The timings will revert to the standard schedule at the conclusion of Ramadan.
The move is in line with the central bank’s long-standing practice of modifying office and transaction hours during Ramadan. By doing so, banks aim to provide uninterrupted services while respecting religious observances. Officials advise customers to plan their major transactions within the adjusted hours to avoid any inconvenience.
This proactive adjustment underscores the bank’s commitment to balancing operational efficiency with religious and cultural considerations. By harmonising office hours with prayer schedules, the central bank ensures a smoother experience for both employees and customers during the sacred month.
Overall, the revised schedule represents a thoughtful approach to managing banking operations during Ramadan, ensuring that essential financial services continue efficiently while accommodating the observances of the fasting population.