27 Jun 2023 | 01:15 PM UTC
Russia, Central Asia: Travel, business disruptions likely June 27-July 2 around festival of Eid al-Adha
Muslims in Russia, some former Soviet republics to observe Eid al-Adha from June 28. Transport disruptions, business closures likely.
Event
Muslims in Moscow, southern Russia, Azerbaijan, and Central Asia will celebrate the Feast of Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha) holiday starting June 28. Although certain governments officially allocate only one day for the observance, local celebrations typically last for around three days, and related disruptions may extend into July 2. Government offices and many businesses will close during this time. The holiday season is typically a major travel period; congestion is possible on major highways, at rail stations, and at airports as observers travel home or visit relatives.
The dates for the holiday observance can vary by country. Predominantly Muslim republics in Russia, such as Tatarstan, often observe unofficial holidays. Owing to the large Muslim population in Moscow, authorities will introduce extensive road closures in the vicinity of several large mosques, including the Moscow Cathedral Mosque on Olimpiysky Avenue, June 27-28. Listed below are the official state holidays; some private businesses may remain closed beyond these dates:
Azerbaijan: June 29-30 (Gurban Bayrami*)
Kazakhstan: June 28-29 (Kurban Ait*)
Kyrgyzstan: June 29 (Kurman Ait*)
Tajikistan: June 29 (Idi Qurbon*)
Turkmenistan: June 29 (Kurban Bayramy*)
Uzbekistan: June 28-July 2 (Qurbon Hayit*)
*Local name for the holiday.
Context
The Feast of Sacrifice, known as Eid al-Adha in non-Turkic Muslim countries and one of the most sacred holidays in Islam, is a celebration marking the climax of the Hajj (pilgrimage) in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. In accordance with Islamic customs, Muslims who can afford to do so slaughter sheep, goats, or cows, sharing the meat with neighbors, relatives, and those in need.
Advice
Adhere to local customs and avoid sensitive topics of discussion, including religious or political issues. Confirm existing travel and hotel reservations and business meetings. Allow additional time to reach destinations and exercise caution if driving, as traffic fatalities typically increase sharply during this high-travel period.
