TEHRAN – On Monday, Iranian Transport and Urban Development Minister Mehrdad Bazrpash announced the launch of a new marine service to facilitate the journey of Arbaeen pilgrims.

Bazrpash confirmed that passenger vessels have been allocated to transport pilgrims from Iran to Iraq, marking a significant development in the logistics of this major religious event.

“The maritime route for Arbaeen pilgrims has been opened thanks to the efforts of my colleagues at the Ports and Maritime Organization. The first ship has already set sail from Khorramshahr Port to Basra Port in Iraq,” Bazrpash stated.

To accommodate the influx of pilgrims, the Persian Gulf Passenger Terminal, covering an area of 6,000 square meters, has been fully equipped and made available for use. The minister also highlighted plans to expand this capacity in the coming year.

The Arbaeen pilgrimage, which reaches its climax on the 20th day of the Islamic month of Safar (Aug. 25), marks the end of the 40-day mourning period for Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions and is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.

This year, more than 4.5 million Iranian pilgrims are expected to attend the pilgrimage. Last year, the event attracted approximately 22.5 million pilgrims from around the world, highlighting its significance and the importance of ensuring safe and efficient travel for all attendees.

AM