TEHRAN – In the nine days between Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Ghadir, Mashhad’s accommodation occupancy rate soared to an uplifting 80%.

“The accommodation occupancy rate for Mashhad in the first quarter of this Persian year (started on March 20) was 57%,” said a local official in charge of travel services, “Reaching 80% in the celebration days from Eid al-Adha to Eid al-Ghadir.”

Regarding planned arrangements for catering to pilgrims and tourists, Seyyed Javad Mousavi elaborated that tens of meetings have been held up to this point aimed at improving their travel experience.

Coinciding with the summer travel wave, he highlighted the city, with its vast wealth of cultural and religious sides, is ready to welcome pilgrims during the lunar months of Muharram and Safar, when special mourning ceremonies are held across the holy city.

According to the provincial tourism director-general, approximately 750,000 overnight stays are planned for pilgrims in 4747 locations across three categories: official, temporary, and emergency accommodations.

“Of these, 222,312 are in the official accommodation category, which includes hotels, hotel apartments, and guesthouses,” Mousavi winded up.

At the heart of Mashhad is the holy shrine of Imam Reza (the eighth Shia Imam), which marks one of the largest and most revered religious sites in Iran.

Pilgrims from Iran and across the globe visit the shrine to pay their respects, seek spiritual solace, and perform religious rituals. The shrine is a sprawling architectural marvel, featuring golden domes, intricately designed minarets, vast courtyards, and beautifully decorated prayer halls.

To accommodate the influx of pilgrims, Mashhad has developed an extensive infrastructure and facilities. The city boasts a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly lodgings to luxury hotels, catering to the diverse needs of visitors. Additionally, numerous restaurants, shopping centers, and transportation services are tailored to serve the pilgrims. The local government and religious organizations work collaboratively to ensure the smooth operation of these services, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons.

In summary, religious tourism is an integral part of Mashhad’s character. The city’s ability to blend spiritual devotion with modern amenities ensures that it remains a vital destination for pilgrims and a key cultural and economic hub in Iran.

XF/AM