Holiday Calendar for 2026 Released by Bangladesh Bank
Introduction to the Holiday Calendar
The Bangladesh Bank has officially published the holiday calendar for the year 2026. This calendar outlines a total of 28 bank closure days, excluding the regular weekly holidays, for all scheduled banks. The announcement was made through a circular issued by the Department of Off-Site Supervision of Bangladesh Bank, which was sent to the Managing Directors and Chief Executive Officers of all scheduled banks.
Breakdown of the Holiday Calendar
The holiday calendar for 2026 includes a variety of significant religious festivals and national commemorations. Notably, the number of holidays has increased from 27 in 2025 and 24 in 2024. The first holiday of the year is scheduled for Shab-e-Barat on February 4, followed by Shaheed Day and International Mother Language Day on February 21.
Major Holiday Periods
The longest breaks in the calendar are centered around the two major Eids: Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha. For Eid-ul-Fitr, banks will be closed for five days, from March 19 to March 23, covering the day before Eid, the day of Eid, and the two subsequent days. Similarly, for Eid-ul-Adha, banks will be closed from May 26 to May 31, a period that also includes two weekly holidays.
Effectiveness and Basis of the Holiday Schedule
The central bank has specified that this holiday schedule is effective for all scheduled banks. The schedule is based on a gazette notification issued by the Ministry of Public Administration on November 9 of the current year. This ensures that all banks follow a uniform holiday calendar, facilitating a coordinated approach to bank operations and customer services.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the release of the 2026 holiday calendar by Bangladesh Bank provides clarity on the days when banks will be closed, allowing both banks and their customers to plan accordingly. The calendar’s focus on significant religious and national events highlights the importance of these observances in the country’s cultural and social fabric. As the year progresses, it will be essential for individuals and businesses to refer to this calendar to avoid any inconvenience caused by bank closures.
