Arbaeen 2025: Iraq Bolsters Security and Service Infrastructure for Pilgrim Influx
With the Arbaeen pilgrimage underway, Iraqi authorities, local organizations, and international groups are implementing extensive security and service plans to accommodate the millions of pilgrims traveling to the holy cities of Najaf and Karbala. From border crossings to the holy shrines, a coordinated effort is in place to ensure a safe, smooth, and well-cared-for experience for all.
In response to the massive influx of pilgrims, Iraq has launched a comprehensive security and service plan. The Minister of Interior announced the plan’s commencement on the first day of the month of Safar, involving intensive intelligence efforts and the deployment of police units to secure pilgrimage routes and ensure safe travel. This is supported by a large-scale security operation led by the Iraqi army and Popular Mobilization Forces. To further facilitate pilgrim movement, the Iraqi Prime Minister has banned ceremonial convoys and the bodyguards of officials from entering the holy city of Karbala.
In terms of healthcare, Nineveh province has enacted a comprehensive medical service plan, which includes stationing medical teams in Karbala and on the road between Babylon and Karbala.
Logistical support is a key focus, with significant efforts being made across various provinces. In Diyala province, over 600 pilgrim service stations (mawakib) have been established to assist pilgrims. The Holy Shrine of Kazimayn has doubled its capacity for producing water and ice to be distributed to these service stations, and the Holy Shrine of Imam Ali has expanded its facilities by thousands of square meters to provide pilgrims with accommodation, cooling systems, and meals.
To manage transportation, special terminals have been prepared in Najaf and Karbala, and a new system has been introduced to regulate fares and prevent disorganized transport.
International cooperation is also a notable aspect of the preparations. A caravan of Iranian traditional medicine specialists is providing free medical consultations and treatments along the pilgrimage routes. Furthermore, the city of Sarpol-e-Zahab in Iran has prepared facilities to host up to 5,000 pilgrims, with lodging provided in schools, mosques, and other venues equipped with cooling systems.
Imam Hussein Media Group has also set up a live broadcast station to assist global media in covering the event. As of recent reports, over 187,000 pilgrims have already entered Iraq for the pilgrimage. The Zurbatiyah border crossing alone is seeing a daily average of 26,000 pilgrims.
In a move to facilitate the event, the governors of Maysan, Najaf, Karbala, and other provinces have declared official holidays. The Iraqi Prime Minister also announced a public holiday across all government institutions for the day of Arbaeen.
On the religious front, the black flag of mourning has been hoisted over the Maqam of Tel Zainabiyah, and the Iraqi Supreme Quranic Council has launched Quranic and religious stations along pilgrim routes in 12 provinces.
