By Abid Chaudhry
TWA
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As the sacred months of Muharram and Safar approach, the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Pakistan has announced comprehensive measures to facilitate Pakistani pilgrims visiting the Holy Shrines in Mashhad and Iraq.
The Iranian Headquarters of Arbaeen, committed to welcoming visitors from various countries, especially Pakistan, has undertaken significant initiatives to ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience. Key measures include:
1. Facilitation at Common Borders:
Consistent with previous years, the Iranian Arbaeen Headquarters in Sistan and Baluchistan province has prepared the necessary facilities to welcome pilgrims at the Iran-Pakistan borders.
2. Pilgrimage to Imam Reza’s Shrine:
Pilgrims can visit the Holy Shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) in Mashhad during Muharram, continuing the practice of past years.
3. Travel to Iraq with Double-Entry Visa: Pilgrims wishing to visit the Holy Shrines during the first decade of Muharram (June 27 to July 8, 2024) can travel to Iraq via Iran with a valid double-entry visa.
4. Participation in Arbaeen Procession: Those intending to join the Arbaeen Procession (July 9 to August 22, 2024) can travel to Iraq through Iran with an Iranian double-entry visa, provided they hold a valid Iraqi visa.
5. Visa Application Requirements:
In light of the overcrowding at the common borders, Pakistani pilgrims must obtain an Iraqi visa before applying for an Iranian visa. Iranian visas can be acquired from five missions located in Islamabad, Peshawar, Lahore, Karachi, and Quetta.
6. Visa Application Process:
Pilgrims can apply for and receive their Iranian visas at any of the five designated missions of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Pakistan, adhering to the stipulated regulations.
7. Transportation Arrangements:
Caravan owners are requested to transport pilgrims by bus from Pakistan to Iran and Iraq, ensuring greater convenience for the pilgrims.
8. Support for Bus Passage:
The Iranian Arbaeen Headquarters will endeavor to provide necessary facilities for the smooth passage of buses carrying pilgrims from Iran to the Iraqi border.
The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Pakistan extends its best wishes to all pilgrims for a safe and blessed journey during these holy months.
