Saudi Arabia Public Holidays 2026: When Are Banks Closed?

Knowing the official holiday schedule in Saudi Arabia is crucial when sending money to loved ones living there or waiting for payments from the country. During public holidays, banks and government institutions are closed, which can cause money transfers to be processed on the next business day.

Below you can find detailed answers to questions such as:
"When are banks closed in Saudi Arabia?", "How long does it take to transfer money to Saudi Arabia?", and "Do banks operate during Eid al-Fitr?"

2026 Saudi Arabia Public Holiday Calendar and Banking Status

The table below shows the public holidays in Saudi Arabia for 2026 when banks are closed and the impact on transfers:

* Dates of religious holidays may vary depending on the sighting of the lunar calendar.
** Holiday periods typically last several days, during which banks remain closed.

Banking Days and Working Hours in Saudi Arabia

Banks in Saudi Arabia usually operate Sunday to Thursday. Friday and Saturday are the weekend.

Standard working hours are generally 09:30 AM – 04:30 PM, but:

• Working hours may be shorter during Ramadan.

• There may be higher transaction volumes on the last business day before a holiday.

• Online banking is available 24/7, but the processing date depends on business days.

Therefore, weekends must be considered when planning transfers to Saudi Arabia.

How Long Does It Take to Transfer Money to Saudi Arabia?

International transfers usually take:

• Via SWIFT: 1–3 business days

• During holidays: 3–5 business days

• During holiday weeks: Can take longer

If a transfer instruction is given on a public holiday, it will be processed on the first business day when banks reopen.

Banking During Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are the longest public holiday periods in Saudi Arabia. During these times:

• Banks are fully closed

• Government offices do not operate

• SWIFT transactions are put on hold

• Delays may extend if holidays overlap with weekends

It is recommended to plan transfers at least 2–3 business days in advance, especially before the end of Ramadan or Eid al-Adha.

Weekend Days in Saudi Arabia

Unlike Turkey, weekends in Saudi Arabia are Friday and Saturday.
This affects transfer planning because:

• A transfer instruction given on Thursday in Turkey

• Falls on Friday in Saudi Arabia

• The transaction may be processed on Sunday

Hence, differences in business days between the two countries should be considered.

Time Difference Between Turkey and Saudi Arabia

Turkey and Saudi Arabia generally share the same time zone (UTC+3). However, internal bank processing hours may differ.
Submitting transfer instructions close to the end of business hours may result in processing on the next business day.

Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority (SAMA) Regulations

The banking system in Saudi Arabia is regulated by the Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority (SAMA).
Official holiday schedules, financial system closures, and banking notices are determined under SAMA guidelines. During public holidays, banking systems are closed, and transfer instructions are automatically moved to the next business day.

Are Banks Open on Public Holidays in Saudi Arabia?

No. Banks in Saudi Arabia are closed during public holidays. Any transfer instructions submitted on a holiday are processed on the first business day when banks reopen. Delays may be longer during Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.

Sending Money During Public Holidays: kuikpara

Even when banks are closed during public holidays, the need for international money transfers continues. kuikpara offers a fast and practical alternative without relying on traditional banking.

Benefits include:

• 24/7 transfer instructions

• Planning transactions without holiday or weekend restrictions

• Quick processing via user-friendly mobile app

• Secure and modern transfer infrastructure

• Efficient process for international transfers

This allows you to schedule transfers easily even on days when banks are closed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Saudi Arabia Public Holidays

Can I transfer money during Saudi Arabia’s public holidays?
Yes, instructions can be submitted, but transactions will be processed on the first business day when banks reopen.

Are banks open on weekends in Saudi Arabia?
No. Friday and Saturday are the weekend.

Does Eid al-Fitr affect transfer time?
Yes. Transfers may be delayed by several business days due to the long holiday period.

Are SWIFT transactions halted during Eid al-Adha?
Yes. Banks are closed, and transactions are put on hold.

How long does it take for money to reach Saudi Arabia?
Usually 1–3 business days; it may take longer during holiday periods.

Last Uptade: March 2026

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