From Desert to Arbaeen Route: Around 70 Bedouin Mokebs Serve Pilgrims in Iraq’s Muthanna Province

From Desert to Arbaeen Route: Around 70 Bedouin Mokebs Serve Pilgrims in Iraq’s Muthanna Province
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Bedouin communities in Iraq’s Muthanna province continue to commemorate Husseini rituals during Muharram and Safar, while also playing a major role in serving pilgrims heading to Karbala for the Arbaeen pilgrimage, with more than 70 service Mokebs established in Al-Khidhir district.

The desert communities hold mourning gatherings, religious programs, and Husseini processions to mark Ashura and other occasions related to Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them). During the early days of Muharram, desert areas witness mourning marches attended by hundreds, followed by religious lectures, lamentation gatherings, and the distribution of food to mourners.

With the arrival of the Arbaeen season, their efforts shift toward Al-Khidhir district, one of the main routes used by pilgrims walking from Basra, Dhi Qar, and other areas, including visitors arriving from outside Iraq, on their way to the holy city of Karbala.

Organizers of the processions said that providing services to pilgrims in the area began in 2003 through small initiatives based around traditional tents and meals prepared from household resources. Over the years, these efforts expanded to include more than 70 service processions managed by numerous Bedouin families and tribes.

For around seven days, the processions provide pilgrims with three main meals daily, along with water, juices, fruits, and pastries. Organizers also prepare free meals by slaughtering sheep and camels to serve the large numbers of visitors passing through the region.

Bedouin families of all ages participate in the Husseini services, with men and young people managing the processions and hospitality, while women and girls take part in mourning gatherings. The tradition has been passed down through generations, reflecting the strong connection of desert communities with Imam Hussein (peace be upon him) and Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them).

The service stations spread across Al-Khidhir district have become an important resting point for walking pilgrims on their long journey from southern Iraq to Karbala, combining Bedouin traditions of generosity with the spirit of service that defines the Arbaeen pilgrimage.