Dhaka: A seven-day government holiday will begin in the country on Monday as millions prepare to celebrate Eid-ul-Azha, the second-largest religious festival of the Muslims. Government offices, courts, and many private establishments will remain closed during the break, triggering a nationwide travel rush as people leave major cities-especially Dhaka-to celebrate the festival with family members in their hometowns.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the holiday period was announced by the government on May 7, designating May 25 to May 31 as official days off for Eid-ul-Azha celebrations. Despite the extended holiday, critical healthcare services will continue uninterrupted. Doctors and nurses treating measles patients and those providing emergency healthcare services will be exempt from the holiday as their Eid-ul-Azha leave has been canceled to ensure continuous medical care.
The announcement was made during a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, signaling the importance of uninterrupted healthcare amidst the festive period. In addition, the government ensured that offices remained operational on May 23 (Saturday) to accommodate the upcoming holiday schedule.
Eid-ul-Azha, which will be celebrated on May 28, is a time when millions travel from urban centers to their rural homes. The government offices are scheduled to reopen on June 1, marking the end of the holiday period.