Iraqi Ambassador to Iran Predicts 50 Million Visitors for Arbaeen Pilgrimage

The Iraqi Ambassador to Iran, Nasser Abdul Mohsen Abdullah, has expressed hopes that the number of visitors commemorating the Husseini Arbaeen pilgrimage will reach 50 million from various countries around the world. This figure aligns with predictions made by Misbah al-Hussein Foundation for Relief and Development, which anticipates achieving this milestone by the year 2030.

In a press statement reported by the Shia Waves Agency, Abdullah stated, “The Arbaeen pilgrimage of Imam al-Hussein (peace be upon him) is a blessing from God Almighty, attracting participants from 150 countries globally.” He emphasized his wish for the visitor count to reach 50 million, allowing them to benefit from the blessings of this significant event.

Misbah al-Hussein Foundation had previously introduced a major developmental project titled “Vision of Holy Karbala 2030,” aiming to accommodate over 50 million visitors during the Arbaeen pilgrimage. These projections are based on insights from the esteemed religious authority, Grand Ayatollah Sayyed Sadiq al-Husseini al-Shirazi, regarding efforts to increase the number of Arbaeen visitors each year.

Through this initiative, the foundation aims to present a comprehensive study addressing the actual needs for the development of Karbala to effectively accommodate such a large influx of visitors.

Devotees of the Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them) from Iraq and around the world commemorate the Arbaeen of Imam al-Hussein (peace be upon him) on the 20th of Safar al-Ahzan in the holy city of Karbala. Local authorities anticipate that this year’s visitor count will exceed 25 million.