Bangladesh has begun its weeklong Eid holiday, triggering a mass departure of people from Dhaka

Bangladesh entered a seven-day holiday on Tuesday ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr, sparking a nationwide travel surge as millions leave major cities—particularly Dhaka—to celebrate the festival with their families in their hometowns.

Government offices, courts, and many private establishments will remain closed during the extended break, contributing to the mass exodus. Monday (16 March) marked the final working day before the holiday.

Subject to moon sighting, Eid-ul-Fitr is expected to be observed on 20 or 21 March.

To ease travel for holidaymakers, the government also declared 18 March a public holiday, ensuring uninterrupted leave. The decision, approved at a cabinet meeting amid growing public demand, makes the Eid break continuous from 17 March to 23 March.

Following the approval, the Ministry of Public Administration issued a notification on 8 March confirming the additional holiday.