Bahrain declares two-day public holiday for Ashura, extends break to Monday

The Kingdom of Bahrain has declared a two-day public holiday in observance of Ashura, according to a circular issued by Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

All ministries, government departments, agencies, and public institutions will remain closed on Saturday, July 5, and Sunday, July 6, 2025.



Extended Break Due to Weekend

As Saturday is already part of Bahrain’s official weekend (Friday-Saturday), the day off will be compensated on Monday, July 7. This effectively grants government employees a long weekend, from Friday through Monday.

Bahrain’s holiday structure frequently adjusts for weekends to ensure public employees receive the full benefit of declared holidays.



The long weekend offers residents and government workers an extended break to mark Ashura, a significant religious occasion observed across the region. Normal operations across public institutions will resume on Tuesday, July 8.