Saudis are packing their bags and fuelling up their cars as they get ready to spend a safe and joyful Eid Al Adha in Bahrain, with the King Fahad Causeway once again filling up with travellers from all across Saudi Arabia.
The return of the familiar holiday rush has restored a sense of normalcy, as during Eid Al Fitr in March, many were unable to plan their visits due to disruptions and regional tensions caused by the war.
However, as the short-lived times of stress have hopefully come to an end, families and individuals are once again making the traditional cross-border trip to celebrate and enjoy Bahrain’s hospitality.
Ibrahim Alhaddad is reuniting his mother with a long-time friend, who used to be a neighbour but now lives in Bahrain with her husband and family.
“When I was growing up, she was always with us on outings and trips, so she is as special as a blood relative,” the 49-year-old banker from Qatif said. “During the war, my mother was glued to the TV watching the news, and would text and call to check up on her constantly.
“We are definitely relieved that our loved ones in Bahrain are safe, and that we are now able to see them in person again.”
Also driving from Qatif, Hiba Aldar is ecstatic to see her in-laws, whom she could not spend Eid Al Fitr with in person.
“Of course, we were able to video call, but it does not compare to being physically in the room with everybody,” the 32 year-old mechanical engineer said.
“I am grateful that we will get to spend this special time together without fear and worry, and I’m especially excited to see the children again and be able to personally hand them their ediyas.”
Salman Almustafa, 40, is looking forward to taking a break from his busy city life in Riyadh, where he works as a banker, and enjoy the beautiful scenery that the kingdom offers.
“The sea is a big draw. The beaches and fresh air are something Riyadh doesn’t offer due to its geographical location,” he expressed.
“I also enjoy the slower pace that Bahrain offers, which makes exploring and relaxing so much easier.
“A time to disconnect and wind down after the stresses of work, as well as the uncertain times we all have gone through, is definitely needed.”
Likewise, Amal Aljaafari has also planned a relaxing stay at a resort, which is something she enjoys to do on special occasions such as Eid season.
“Bahrain holds a special place in my heart and I consider it my second home,” the 34 year-old Dammam resident said. “I made many great memories throughout my experiences in the country and visited places that are now essential to go every time I’m there, such as certain restaurants and shops.
“I’m so happy and excited to be back to my favourite destination on earth, may God keep Bahrain and its people safe,” the human resources manager added.
From Jeddah, Seba Mulla is visiting the eastern province for the first time, and is making sure to pay a visit to Bahrain during her trip.
“I feel like it is essential to the experience, as I know many from the area like to go on a regular journey across the causeway,” the 26-year-old beautician said. “I also happen to have Internet friends that are from Bahrain, so they offered to give me a tour around the country.
“I am a lover of antiques and jewellery, so we are definitely going to the old suqs in Manama and Muharraq. I’m also extremely excited to try Bahraini cuisine.”
Being from a city located near Mecca, this Eid holds a special place in Seba’s heart, as she recalls a story that her mother told her about Haj season in the olden times.
“At a time before I was born, my parents used to live near Al Haram, so this would be a busy time for them as they would clear and tidy their house for pilgrims who would need a place to stay,” she explained.
“This was generally a normal thing to do for many people in Jeddah, especially ones who live the closest to Mecca, so the time of Eid Al Adha would be dedicated to serving the worshippers and helping in any way possible.
“Of course in today’s modern times, this is no longer needed, but I do find myself reflecting during this time of the year at how far we have come.”
Traffic movement through the King Fahad Causeway is steadily returning to normal and stable levels, according to Interior Ministry Under-Secretary for Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs (NPRA) Shaikh Hisham Al Khalifa.
The remarks were made during a meeting held last week with King Fahad Causeway Authority chief executive officer Yousif Al Abdan, as reported by the GDN.
Shaikh Hisham highlighted the sharp rise in traveller numbers, revealing that crossings increased from 833,000 travellers in March to nearly 1.5 million in April – an increase of around 80 per cent, reflecting the strong recovery in cross-border movement between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.
For his part, Mr Al Abdan noted that more than 33m travellers crossed the border point in 2025, representing a 1.6pc increase compared with the previous year.
rima@gdnmedia.bh
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