The United States Embassy in Nairobi has announced its closure on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, to observe Eid-ul-Adha.
Through a notice published on Tuesday, the embassy confirmed that regular services would recommence on Thursday, May 28.
“The US Embassy will be closed on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, in observance of Eid-ul-Adha. Normal operations will resume on Thursday, May 28, 2026,” stated the embassy.
This announcement follows Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen’s declaration of Wednesday as a public holiday for Eid-ul-Adha celebrations in Kenya.
In a special Kenya Gazette edition dated May 25, Murkomen explained that the holiday was established under the authority of the Public Holidays Act.
“It is notified for the general information of the public that, in exercise of the powers conferred by section 3(1) of the Public Holidays Act, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration declares that Wednesday, the 27th May, shall be a public holiday to mark Eid-ul-Adha,” Murkomen stated.
Eid-ul-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, represents one of the most significant observances in the Islamic calendar, celebrated globally by Muslims through prayers, charitable acts, and family reunions.
The occasion commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to divine will prior to being provided with a ram as a substitute.
The holiday occurs on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and aligns with the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.
Muslims typically observe the day with special prayers conducted in mosques and open spaces, followed by sharing meals with family, neighbors, and those in need.
During the celebrations, animals including goats, sheep, cows, and camels are sacrificed, with the meat distributed as part of charitable contributions.
In Kenya, Eid-ul-Adha is recognized as a public holiday, enabling Muslim adherents to participate in prayers and festivities with their families and communities.