SBP Announces No Fresh Currency Notes for Eid ul Fitr 2026
The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has confirmed that it will not issue fresh currency notes for Eid ul Fitr 2026. This announcement was made on March 3, 2026, through an official notice.
Instead of newly printed notes, banks will provide clean and ATM-fit notes from their existing stock. The usual distribution of new banknotes through commercial banks and special counters will not take place this year, marking a significant change in the traditional practices surrounding the holiday.
In previous years, citizens could obtain fresh currency notes via an SMS service and designated bank branches. However, the SBP has stated that the SMS service 8877 and dedicated counters for obtaining fresh notes will not operate for Eid ul Fitr 2026.
As a result, citizens are encouraged to utilize digital payment methods and e-wallets for their Eid transactions. This shift aligns with the SBP’s broader goal of modernizing the financial ecosystem and reducing reliance on newly printed cash.
The absence of newly printed notes may alter the long-standing practice of giving Eidi in many households this year. The SBP has acknowledged that this decision could cause inconvenience to the public.
Moreover, the SBP has emphasized that authentic information regarding new currency notes will only be communicated through official announcements. Street vendors selling bundles of crisp banknotes at inflated prices before Eid are engaging in illegal practices, further complicating the situation.
The SBP uses press releases as its sole method for public communication, ensuring that all updates are disseminated through official channels. The decision not to issue new notes has been met with mixed reactions from the public, with many expressing concern over the impact on traditional gifting practices.
Overall, the SBP’s decision reflects a significant shift in how financial transactions will be conducted during the festive season, highlighting the increasing importance of digital solutions in everyday life.