Iran Announces Return to Standard Banking Hours Following Summer Energy Measures
In a move signaling a return to routine administrative operations, Iran’s Administrative and Employment Affairs Organization has confirmed the official conclusion of its summer banking schedule. The temporary measures, initially implemented to manage a significant power grid strain during unprecedented summer heatwaves, will be phased out at the end of the current month.
A Strategic Response to National Energy Needs
The revised summer hours, which saw banks operating from 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM, were a key component of the government’s broader strategy to ensure national energy stability. By shifting operations to earlier in the day, the policy effectively reduced electricity consumption during peak afternoon hours, safeguarding the power grid from potential overload and preventing widespread blackouts during a period of extreme weather. This proactive approach underscored the administration’s commitment to maintaining essential public services and economic stability in the face of environmental challenges.
The New Timetable: What to Expect
According to the official directive, the summer schedule will remain in effect until the end of the Persian month of Shahrivar (September 21, 2024). A return to standard operating hours is set for the first day of the month of Mehr (September 22, 2024).
- Effective Mehr 1, 1404 (September 22, 2024): Public banking hours will revert to the standard timetable of 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM.
- Bank Employees: Staff will be present from 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM to facilitate preparation and customer service.
Clarity on Five-Day Workweek
The policy of closing banks and government offices on Thursdays during the summer, another energy-saving initiative, will also continue until the official end of the season. A decision on whether this measure will be extended beyond the summer will be made and communicated at a later date, following further review by the relevant authorities.
This structured return to normalcy reflects a balanced and measured governance approach, prioritizing both the nation’s infrastructural resilience and the consistent delivery of public services to its citizens.
