Saudi Arabia: Eid al-Adha expected to begin September 1

Event

Muslims will celebrate Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice) this year beginning September 1. During the festivities, which last up to four days, many government offices, foreign embassies, and local businesses close. Heavy road traffic is likely as large numbers of people return home during the holiday. Other transportation disruptions (crowded airports, etc.) are also to be anticipated during this period due to an increased number of travelers. While celebrations typically remain peaceful, the terrorist threat will remain elevated during this period as groups, including Islamic State (IS) and Al-Qa’ida and their affiliates could step up attacks by targeting crowded mosques or public places.

Context

Eid al-Adha is one of the most widely observed holidays in Islam and coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. According to Islamic customs, worshipers usually slaughter a sheep or goat to share the meat with their family and neighbors. About 97 percent of Saudi Arabia's population is Muslim.

Advice

Individuals in Saudi Arabia are advised to allow additional time for travel, and to avoid any form of public demonstration or public gathering.

On a more general note, given the prevailing terrorist risk in Saudi Arabia, those present in the country are advised to avoid public places deemed particularly likely to be targeted in the event of an attack (e.g., official buildings, military zones) and report all suspicious objects or behavior to authorities.