As Ramadan 2025 begins, a large number of ATMs in Karachi and other cities across Pakistan have run out of cash, leaving many people struggling to withdraw money for shopping and household expenses. With bank timing in Ramadan adjusted, increased withdrawals have led to cash shortages at several ATMs.
Increased Cash Withdrawals at the Start of Ramadan
With the Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee confirming that the Ramadan moon was not sighted on Friday, the first fast was observed on Sunday (March 2, 2025). As a result, long queues were seen outside ATMs on Saturday evenings and Sunday mornings, a weekly holiday.
Many customers were left frustrated as they had to visit multiple ATMs in search of cash, with many machines running dry due to the increased demand.
Cash Shortage to Worsen Due to Bank Holiday
The situation may worsen as banks will remain closed on Monday for Zakat deductions. Causing more ATMs to run out of cash.
A banker, speaking on the condition of anonymity, stated:
“The heavy influx of withdrawals at the start of Ramadan likely led to ATMs running empty. Since today is Sunday, cash cannot be deposited, making it harder to restock ATMs in time.”
Additionally, some people withdraw cash before Zakat deductions to avoid automatic deductions from their accounts.
Check Sehri Iftar Time Calendar Karachi – Ramadan 2025
Digital Banking Services Also Affected
United Bank Limited (UBL) had already informed customers that ATM services and digital banking would be unavailable. On Sunday, March 2, 2025, from 12 AM to 10 AM due to Zakat deduction activities.
A social media post from UBL read:
“All digital channels, including the UBL Digital App, internet banking, debit and credit cards, and ATM services, will not be available on Sunday, March 2, 2025, due to Zakat deduction activity.”
Pakistan’s ATM Network & Current Challenges
As of September 2024, Pakistan has 19,170 ATMs. According to the State Bank of Pakistan’s (SBP) latest quarterly report on the Payment System Review (1QFY25).
At the time of reporting, an official response from the SBP and other commercial banks was still awaited regarding the ongoing cash shortages and plans to address them.
