Iraqi Kurdistan Announces Successful Facilitation of 100,000 Arbaeen Pilgrims Through Haji Omaran Border Crossing

Iraqi Kurdistan Announces Successful Facilitation of 100,000 Arbaeen Pilgrims Through Haji Omaran Border Crossing
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The Supreme Committee overseeing the transportation and reception of Arbaeen pilgrims in Iraq’s Kurdistan Region has announced the successful implementation of this year’s organizational plan, with around 100,000 pilgrims from five countries crossing through the Haji Omaran international border point with Iran on their way to Najaf and Karbala.

According to media reports, the plan was implemented based on decisions by the Kurdistan Regional Government and an administrative directive issued by Erbil Governorate in June, with the participation of various government ministries, security and service institutions, health authorities, and the Barzani Charity Foundation.

The official reception of pilgrims began on July 15, 2026, and continued until August 6. During this period, Haji Omaran border crossing witnessed heavy movement of pilgrims arriving from Iran, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Russia to participate in the Arbaeen pilgrimage ceremonies in Karbala.

Official statistics showed that approximately 100,000 pilgrims passed through the crossing during the operation period. Medical teams and health stations along the route provided initial healthcare services to 2,525 pilgrims.

Authorities also reported that emergency teams responded to six incidents, while one bus traffic accident was recorded, with no fatalities reported. Officials considered the outcome an indication of the effectiveness of the security and preventive measures implemented during the pilgrimage season.

The supervising authorities stated that coordination among government, security and service institutions helped ensure smooth pilgrim movement and provided a safe environment for visitors traveling to the holy cities. They added that the plan achieved its objectives in facilitating the arrival of international pilgrims and improving services along their journey to Karbala.