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2024-02-20

Extending the Working Hours of Branches Operating in the Cities of Makkah and Madinah

The Saudi Central Bank mandates extending the operating hours of branches in Makkah and Madinah during Hajj and Umrah seasons, specifically from the start of Ramadan to the end of Dhu al-Hijjah each year. This extension allows up to four continuous additional hours beyond official schedules, provided branches are located near the Two Holy Mosques, maintain adequate staffing, and publicly announce the changes. Financial institutions must submit updated branch lists to the regulator and notify relevant security authorities regarding these extended hours within the holy sites' jurisdiction.

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Saudi Arabia

Saudi Central Bank

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Saudi Central Bank

Reference No.: 45052183 Date: 11/08/1445 Attachments: None

Circular

Dear Sirs, Greetings,

Subject: Extending the Working Hours of Branches Operating in Makkah and Madinah.

Based on the Saudi Central Bank's authority to issue instructions related to financial institutions and their operations, in accordance with its system issued by Royal Decree No. (M/36) dated 1442/04/11 AH, and the SAMA Circular No. (44087394) dated 1444/11/17 AH regarding extending branch working hours in areas where pilgrims gather near the Two Holy Mosques, and to enhance efforts aimed at improving the experience of the Guests of Allah, and facilitating their access to financial services for currency exchange and conversion for Umrah pilgrims and Hajj pilgrims.

Accordingly, the Saudi Central Bank emphasizes the importance of extending the working hours of branches operating in Makkah and Madinah during the Hajj and Umrah seasons, from the beginning of Ramadan until the end of Dhu al-Hijjah each year, in accordance with the following conditions:

  1. The branch must be located in areas where pilgrims gather near the Two Holy Mosques.
  2. Extended working hours shall not exceed four continuous hours from official working hours, without prejudice to the provisions of the Labor Law and its executive regulations.
  3. The bank must have a sufficient number of employees during extended working hours.
  4. The bank must announce the extended branch operating hours through available channels.
  5. The bank must provide the Saudi Central Bank with a list of branches whose operating hours have been extended.
  6. The bank must notify the security authorities of the extended operating hours for branches within the jurisdiction of the Two Holy Mosques.

Accept my regards,

Yazeed bin Ahmed Al-Sheikh Deputy Governor for Supervision

Distribution Scope:

  • Banks and financial institutions operating in the Kingdom.

P.O. Box 2992 Riyadh 11169, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Tel: +966 11 463 3000

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