RIYADH: Eid Al-Adha prayers will be held at 6.14 a.m. in 200 mosques and 30 open areas across Riyadh on Friday, announced the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Endowments, Call and Guidance.

Riyadh is home to some 5,000 mosques, which are managed by the ministry. However, Eid prayers will only take place in designated Juma mosques which are able to accommodate large congregations. Friday prayers will also be held as normal.

Arrangements have been made to conduct the Eid prayers in open spaces in Sulaimaniyah, Deerah and Manfuha with separate arrangements for women. The Department of Mosques, which works under the ministry, has instructed imams and cleaning companies to ensure the 200 mosques have sufficient water and electricity, and that carpets are clean. Emergency plans have also been made in other mosques in case of rain in the open areas.

The authorities are also urging people to sacrifice their animals at municipal slaughterhouses. Besides the slaughterhouse in Manfuha, Riyadh municipality has organized mobile slaughterhouses at nine locations across the city. Around 300 restaurants and kitchens have also been licensed to slaughter animals during the season. After a slow start, the sale of livestock is set to pick up in coming days.

The streets of Riyadh currently look deserted with few vehicles. Most people have gone to Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates, while others have headed for the Eastern Province.

Banks have also stocked their ATMs with cash. The Speed Cash center in Batha will be open for transaction during the holidays from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.