Heavy traffic and large gatherings are expected in Dhaka and across Bangladesh on December 19-20, 2025, due to the return of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi's body and his funeral prayer. According to media reports, the body will arrive in Dhaka at 6:05 pm on Friday, December 19. The funeral prayer is scheduled for Saturday, December 20, around 2:00 pm after Duhar prayer on Manik Mia Avenue in front of the National Parliament Building.
The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka has issued a message advising individuals to review their travel plans through and around Dhaka during these dates and to allow extra time because of potential delays. The embassy notes that both spontaneous and planned gatherings are likely throughout Bangladesh during this period.
The embassy stated: "U.S. citizens should practice vigilance and remember that gatherings intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. You should avoid demonstrations and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings."
Travelers are encouraged to reconsider their schedules, exercise caution near crowds or protests, stay aware of their surroundings, and monitor local media for updates.
For assistance or further information, U.S. citizens may contact the U.S. Embassy Dhaka at (88) 02 5566 2000 or via email at DhakaACS@state.gov. Additional resources include the State Department – Consular Affairs at 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444 as well as country-specific information available online.
The embassy also recommends enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for security updates and following official social media channels for ongoing information.