Holy Qom Prepares to Host Up to 500,000 Pilgrims for Arbaeen Observance

Holy Qom Prepares to Host Up to 500,000 Pilgrims for Arbaeen Observance
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As millions of pilgrims journey to Iraq for holy Arbaeen, marking the end of the 40-day mourning period after Ashura, Qom stands as a key stop and religious hub, Iqna.ir reported. Mehdi Ghorbanikaram, head of Qom’s Popular Arbaeen Committee, announced that the city is ready to host up to 500,000 pilgrims this year, building on its role as the first Iranian city to hold large-scale Arbaeen ceremonies.

The committee will mobilize over 2,500 volunteers directly serving pilgrims, supported by 22 subdivisions including executive, international, and public relations teams. More than 200 homes and 40 schools have been designated for lodging, alongside coordination with 1,000 Bayt al-Hussein hospitality stations.

Pilgrims will receive free accommodation, three hot meals daily, and medical services, which cost approximately $130,000 last year. Cultural outreach is also a priority, with 130 cultural ambassadors engaging international visitors from 32 countries, including Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, and Nigeria.

Services in Holy Qom are planned through the end of Safar (August 24) and may extend to early Rabi al-Awwal (August 29), depending on pilgrim numbers.