Once again, Iraq is opening its arms to the world, as millions of pilgrims begin their journey to Karbala for Arbaeen 2025 — the annual chehlum of Imam Hussain, marked by reflection, devotion, and unity. From visa facilitation to thousands of volunteers on the ground, the country is mobilizing at every level to welcome visitors from over 150 countries.
Arbaeen, observed 40 days after Ashura, marks the end of mourning for Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was martyred in 680 AD during the Battle of Karbala. What began as a deeply personal act of remembrance has become a symbol of sacrifice, justice, and global unity.
Millions Expected from Around the World
Iraq welcomed over 21.7 million pilgrims last year, including more than 3.7 million international visitors, according to official figures released by the Arbaeen Organizing Committee. In 2022, the total stood at approximately 20.5 million, with 3 million foreign attendees showing a steady increase year by year.
Most international pilgrims arrive from Iran, often walking from the border towns to Karbala. But the spiritual magnetism of Arbaeen now reaches far beyond the region. Large groups come from Pakistan, India, Lebanon, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Afghanistan, while growing numbers arrive from Europe, North America, and Australia. Including countries such as the UK, US, Germany, and Canada.
Najaf to Karbala Walk Remains the Heart of the Pilgrimage
The most iconic part of Arbaeen remains the walk covering the Najaf to Karbala distance — nearly 80 kilometres of road and resilience. Millions make this journey on foot, many over several days, as they reflect on the values of Hussain’s stand against tyranny.
Along the route, an extraordinary network of volunteers sets up thousands of service tents, called mawakib. All services, including food and water, are provided at no cost. No one is turned away. The generosity is overwhelming and, for many pilgrims, unforgettable.
The walk not only honours Imam Hussain but brings together people from every background, language, and class united in purpose.
Iraq Steps Up for 2025
To handle the growing scale of the pilgrimage, Iraq has launched one of its most extensive preparation drives to date. Emergency medical units, mobile clinics, and additional sanitation teams are being deployed along all major routes especially the Najaf to Karbala distance, where the footfall is highest.
Authorities have increased visa facilitation at land borders and airports, including Baghdad, Najaf, and Basra. Special transport corridors and expanded border terminals are being operated at Mehran, Zurbatiya, and Shalamcheh, especially for Iranian pilgrims.
In Karbala itself, city officials are preparing temporary housing, widening roads, and boosting security. Volunteers are being trained to manage everything from crowd control to lost children and language support. With temperatures expected to reach 45°C, Iraqi authorities are setting up shaded rest areas, water stations, and medical points along the route to protect pilgrims from the heat.
A Spiritual Journey That Defies Scale
Despite the sheer number of attendees, Arbaeen is not just about crowds — it’s about meaning. It remains one of the world’s largest peaceful gatherings. But unlike others, it happens with no concert, no speeches, no politics.
Just people. Walking, praying, and remembering the message of Karbala.
As Arbaeen 2025 approaches, Iraq stands ready once again to open its doors and its hearts to the millions making their way to Karbala for the chehlum of Imam Hussain.
