Albania: Eid al-Fitr (end of Ramadan) June 14-17

Event

The Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which began around May 15-16 depending on the country, will come to an end at sundown on the evening of June 14 or June 15, depending on the moon. During this time, operations in Muslim-majority areas of Albania may come to a virtual standstill as Muslims gather to pray and celebrate with family and friends. Eid al-Fitr celebrations are likely to have a major impact on many businesses, stock exchanges, and public services, which may be unavailable or operating on a reduced schedule. Festivities (and disruptions) could continue into Sunday, June 17. As this period is typically marked by increased travel, heavy road traffic after sundown along with other transportation disruptions (crowded airports, etc.) is to be anticipated.

Context

Eid al-Fitr celebrates the conclusion of a month of dawn-to-sunset fasting and remains one of the most important dates on the Muslim calendar.

Albania's largest religious communities are Muslims (57 percent), Roman Catholics (10 percent), and Orthodox Christians (7 percent). Albania lies in a region that has been used by Islamist terrorist organizations as a recruiting base in Europe, prompting fears of an increased terrorist risk in the country.

Advice

Individuals in Albania are advised to allow for additional travel time, remain vigilant, and avoid large public gatherings.