What is Eid al-Adha 2026 and when does it take place?
Eid al-Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, Bakra Eid, or Greater Eid, is one of the most significant religious festivals in Islam. The festival aligns with the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage, an obligatory journey to Mecca for Muslims who are physically and financially able. Traditionally, the observance includes communal prayers (Salat al-Eid), the ritual sacrifice of permissible animals, and the distribution of food among family, friends, and those in need. In 2026, Eid al-Adha is observed on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the final and most sacred month of the Islamic lunar calendar (Hijri year 1447). Following the official sighting of the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon, the Day of Arafat is observed on Tuesday, 26 May 2026, and Eid al-Adha celebrations officially begin on Wednesday, 27 May 2026 across the vast majority of MENA countries.
Which countries in MENA are observing Eid al-Adha and for how long?
Holiday durations vary across the region. In Algeria, the holiday runs 27–30 May (four days). Bahrain observes 26–31 May (six days for public sector). Egypt observes 26–30 May (six days). Iran observes 27–30 May (four days). Iraq observes 27–30 May (four days). Israel observes 27–30 May for Muslim and Druze workers. Jordan observes 25–30 May (six days). Kuwait observes 26–31 May (six days for public sector). Lebanon observes 27–28 May (two or more days). Libya observes 27–30 May (four days). Morocco observes 27–28 May (two days). Oman observes 26–30 May (five days). Qatar observes 26–30 May (five days). Saudi Arabia observes 26–30 May (four days, with a six-day break including the weekend). Syria observes 27–30 May (four days). Tunisia observes 27–28 May (two days). Türkiye observes 26–30 May (4.5 days for private sector, nine days for public sector). UAE observes 25–29 May for public sector (nine-day break) and 26–29 May for private sector (six-day break). The West Bank observes 27–30 May (four days). Yemen observes 27–30 May (four days).
What are the transportation and travel impacts?
Significant travel demand is expected across the region. In Saudi Arabia, around two million pilgrims are expected in the Mecca/Mina/Arafat/Muzdalifah areas, with heightened security and access restrictions around the Grand Mosque and holy sites. Significant road and air traffic disruptions are expected across the Mecca-Medina-Jeddah corridor from 20 May through 05 June. Riyadh Metro will operate extended hours through at least 14 June, and domestic air travel will see demand spikes at King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah), King Khalid International Airport (Riyadh), and King Fahd International Airport (Dammam). In the UAE, Dubai Metro is expected to run extended hours, with free public parking in Dubai anticipated during core Eid days. In Qatar, Doha Metro and public buses will operate modified schedules. In Bahrain, the King Fahd Causeway to Saudi Arabia is expected to experience significantly elevated traffic. In Jordan, the King Hussein Bridge (Allenby Bridge) will see elevated passenger volumes with revised operating hours. In Egypt, the Public Transport Authority will activate special Eid bus routes, and Egyptian National Railways will add services. In Türkiye, domestic travel surges significantly, with bus stations, airports, and intercity routes at peak capacity.
What are the significant risks during Eid al-Adha 2026?
Key risks include civil disturbance (stampede), traffic disruptions (diversions, blockades, congestion), crime (thefts, pickpocketing, inappropriate behaviour towards women), financial scams, fire hazards (fireworks, outdoor barbecues), business disruptions (temporary closures, staff shortages), injuries (falling, sliding), and health risks (heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and dehydration). Elevated summer temperatures across the Gulf and North Africa increase risks of heat exhaustion, dehydration, and heatstroke. Conflict-affected countries such as Sudan, Yemen, Syria, and parts of Iraq and the Palestinian Territories face elevated security risks. The Israel-Hamas ceasefire/conflict status as of mid-2026 significantly influences the security environment in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.
What should organisations and individuals do to prepare?
Workplaces should stay updated with official government announcements regarding Eid al-Adha holidays and work schedule changes. Communicate clearly with employees, clients, and partners about office closures and adjusted work hours. Advise employees to plan commutes, allowing extra travel time and using alternate routes if needed. Track public transport and traffic management advisories, especially in major cities and near places of worship or tourist areas. Circulate health and safety guidance related to public gatherings and travel during the holidays. Coordinate with logistics and supply chain teams to avoid delays during peak holiday travel periods. Encourage sensitivity and cultural awareness in workplace communications and planning. Ensure emergency contacts and essential business services are available during the holiday period. Individuals should expect large crowds at mosques during Salat al-Eid; avoid congested areas and plan travel around peak prayer times. Remain alert near public gathering sites. While commuting, be aware that animal slaughter may occur in public view. Anticipate higher footfall at airports; allow additional time for check-in and security procedures. Expect potential delays in parcel deliveries or business logistics. Respect religious customs and community practices; dress modestly and behave with cultural sensitivity. Refrain from engaging in political or religious debates in public spaces or on social media. Avoid taking photographs or videos during prayer times. Handle meat and perishable foods carefully; observe hygiene practices. Stay informed through official sources on any security advisories. Remain vigilant, as public festivals can be soft targets for terrorism or lone-wolf attacks. Follow local law enforcement updates and avoid areas where protests or disturbances may occur.
Frequently asked questions
When is Eid al-Adha in 2026?
Eid al-Adha 2026 begins on Wednesday, 27 May 2026, following the Day of Arafat on Tuesday, 26 May 2026, across the vast majority of MENA countries.
Which MENA countries have the longest Eid al-Adha holidays?
Türkiye has the longest public sector break at nine days (23–31 May). The UAE public sector enjoys a nine-day break (25 May–1 June). Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Egypt, and Jordan provide six-day breaks.
What are the emergency contact numbers for the MENA region?
Emergency numbers vary by country. In the UAE: 999 (Police), 998 (Ambulance), 997 (Fire). In Saudi Arabia: 999 (Police), 997 (Ambulance), 998 (Fire). In Qatar: 999. In Kuwait: 112. In Egypt: 122 (Police), 123 (Ambulance), 180 (Fire).
Download the full advisory now
datasurfr’s Special Advisory on Eid al-Adha 2026 in the MENA Region carries the complete country-by-country holiday schedules, the full transportation and security guidance, and a detailed contacts directory. Download the full advisory now to brief your travel and continuity teams.
Filed under: EMEAThreat Intelligence Special Reports
