The day of Ashura is a major religious commemoration of the martyrdom at Karbala of Imam Hussein, a grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). As part of the Ashura religious observations, large processions will take place throughout Bahrain, and specifically in central Manama, major roads will be closed. Many Bahrainis observe this religious commemoration by participating in prayer sessions in local gatherings and large processions in the downtown souk area. These activities are associated with mourning, remembrance and atonement and have been traditionally characterized by peaceful devotion and penance. People who may be in the area of these processions should be aware and respectful of religious and cultural sensitivities. As a precautionary measure, we recommend that you maintain a heightened sense of awareness in areas where large crowds gather during this period. People in such areas should ensure they have adequate means of communication and a travel plan to depart the venue in the case of unforeseen emergencies. For the latest security information, U.S. citizens traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State's Internet website at travel.state.gov where the Worldwide Caution, Country Specific Information, Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts can be found. Follow us on Twitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook as well. In addition to information on the internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, from other countries, on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Monday through Friday, Eastern Time (except U.S. federal holidays). The U.S. Embassy in Manama can be reached at (973) 1724-2700; the afterhours emergency number is (973) 1724-2957; the fax number is (973) 1725-6242. The Embassy's website, bahrain.usembassy.gov, includes travel information and the Worldwide Caution and Demonstration Notices. All U.S. citizens are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. The Consular Section can be reached at ManamaConsular@state.gov. The U.S. Embassy is located at: Bldg 979, Road 3119, Block 331, Zinj Kingdom of Bahrain --- American Citizen Services Consulate General of the United States | Dhahran, Saudi Arabia U.S. Department of State | +966.013.330.3200 | DhahranACS@state.gov Register at https://step.state.gov/step/
