The QCB year-end closing holiday 2026 has been officially confirmed, affecting banks and financial institutions across Qatar. According to the QCB year-end closing holiday 2026 announcement, Thursday, 1 January 2026, will be observed as an official holiday, with normal operations resuming on Sunday, 4 January 2026.
This update matters for residents, businesses, and visitors in Doha who rely on banking services during the New Year period. If you are planning transactions, salary processing, or financial activities around New Year, this guide clearly explains the dates, closures, and what to expect, helping you avoid last-minute disruptions.
For 2026, QCB has confirmed that all financial institutions in Qatar will observe a one-day holiday on New Year’s Day, in line with official working day regulations.
The announcement applies to:
- Local and international banks
- Financial institutions regulated by QCB
- Banking operations across Doha and the rest of Qatar
Dates, Timings & Location
The QCB year-end closing holiday 2026 follows a clear schedule.
- Holiday date: Thursday, 1 January 2026
- Banks closed: Thursday, 1 January 2026
- Work resumes: Sunday, 4 January 2026
- Location affected: Doha and all of Qatar
Friday and Saturday remain the regular weekend.
Customers are advised to:
- Complete urgent bank transactions before 31 December 2025
- Plan international transfers and cheque clearances early
- Check individual bank announcements for branch-level details
Digital banking services may continue, subject to bank policies.
What Makes This Special
The QCB year-end closing holiday is significant because it is a nationwide banking closure, not a single-institution decision.
- Applies to all QCB-regulated financial institutions
- Issued under Amiri Decree No. 57 of 2025
- Directly impacts payroll, transfers, and settlements
- Coincides with New Year’s Day, when demand for banking services is high
This announcement is important for:
- Residents managing personal banking in Doha
- Businesses handling payroll and payments
- Employers planning January salary cycles
- Visitors and expatriates transferring funds
- Anyone searching for bank holidays in Qatar 2026
Why This Matters in Qatar
Public holidays announced by QCB play a critical role in Qatar’s financial system. Clear communication around banking closures helps maintain stability, prevents transaction delays, and allows individuals and businesses to plan confidently.
For Doha in particular, where international banking activity is high, knowing exact closure and reopening dates avoids confusion during one of the busiest periods of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are banks closed in Qatar on 1 January 2026?
Yes. All financial institutions regulated by Qatar Central Bank will be closed on Thursday, 1 January 2026.
When do banks reopen after the year-end holiday?
Banks will resume normal operations on Sunday, 4 January 2026.
Do online banking services work during the QCB holiday?
Most banks continue limited digital services, but processing times may be delayed. Customers should confirm with their bank.
Does this holiday apply only to Doha?
No. The QCB year-end closing holiday applies across all of Qatar.
