Yemen: Ramadan to begin May 15-16

Event

On May 15-16, Muslims in Yemen and elsewhere in the world will begin their month-long celebration of Ramadan. The end of the month of Ramadan, marked by Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, will take place between June 14-16. Busy periods should be expected around daybreak but especially in the evening around sunset. In the morning families will gather for "Suhoor" – the last meal before fasting begins. In the evening families gather for "Iftar" – the breaking of the fast. Markets are usually busy in the evenings as people prepare for the evening gathering and feast. Such gatherings will be attractive targets for both Al-Qa'ida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) and Islamic State (IS) militants, who will continue to target military and civilian targets throughout the month. It is almost certain a number of high-profile attacks will be attempted during this period.

Heavy traffic after sundown is to be anticipated as Muslims typically gather for festivities and to eat with family, especially over weekends. Furthermore, traffic accidents tend to increase during Ramadan (especially at dusk) due to a combination of hunger, dehydration, exhaustion, and impatience.

Context

Yemen is engaged in a complex and deadly conflict, ongoing since Houthi rebels entered into a civil war with the Yemeni government, supported by a Saudi-led coalition, in 2015. More than 10,000 Yemenis have died in the fighting and over 2.5 million have been displaced.

Ramadan is a period of reflection and self-restraint and it carries great significance within the Muslim calendar. Muslims traditionally observe daytime fasting and are called to practice increased devotion and abstain from certain activities.

Advice

Individuals in Yemen are advised remain aware of their surroundings and on alert against any suspicious behavior due to the high terrorist threat. It is advised not to eat, drink, or smoke in public throughout this period to avoid drawing undue attention to yourself.

The security environment in Yemen remains complex. Due to poor security conditions, many Western governments strongly advise their citizens against all travel to Yemen.
Although travel is permissible in some areas, other areas should be considered strictly off limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.