UAE: Eid al-Adha begins August 21

Event

Muslims will celebrate Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice) this year beginning Tuesday, August 21. During the festivities, which last up to four days, many government offices, foreign embassies, and local businesses close. Public sector workers will have a week-long holiday from August 19 through August 25. Heavy road traffic is likely as large numbers of people return home during the holiday. Other transportation disruptions (e.g. due to 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, worshippers usually slaughter a sheep or goat to share the meat with their family and neighbors. About 67 percent of the United Arab Emirates' population is Muslim.

Advice

Individuals in United Arab Emirates are advised to allow additional time for travel and to avoid any form of public demonstration or public gathering.