Record-Breaking Pilgrimage: Over 6.3 Million Pilgrims Cross Arbaeen Borders
In an unprecedented display of devotion and unity, more than 6.3 million pilgrims have traversed the Arbaeen borders during the first 21 days of the Arbaeen relocation plan for the current year (July 26th –August 15th). IRAN Roads Management Center has confirmed that 6,313,150 pilgrims have been registered, marking one of the largest religious gatherings in history.
Of this total, 3,409,468 Iranian and non-Iranian pilgrims departed through the land borders of Mehran, Shalamcheh, Chazzabeh, Khosravi, Bashmagh and Tamarchin, embarking on a spiritual journey to the holy shrines. Simultaneously, 2,903,682 pilgrims have returned to the country after completing their sacred visits.
As of now, 505,786 pilgrims remain on their journeys and are expected to return in the coming days via these borders. The busiest exit and entry points include Mehran, Shalamcheh and Khosravi, reflecting their vital role in facilitating the movement of pilgrims.
Public transport has played a critical role in supporting this spiritual migration. Between July 26th –August 15th, 725,812 pilgrims utilized 36,898 public transport trips to leave the country, while 542,155 returned via 26,443 trips. Mehran border remains the most popular route, handling 61% of outbound and 65% of return trips. Shalamcheh and Khosravi follow closely, accounting for significant percentages of pilgrim traffic.
Despite the efficient transportation network, 183,657 pilgrims who utilized public transport for their journeys have yet to return. The provinces of Tehran, Razavi Khorasan, Isfahan, Qom, East Azerbaijan, Alborz, Qazvin, Mazandaran, Fars, Khuzestan, Yazd, Sistan and Baluchestan, and Kerman recorded the highest number of travelers, underscoring the nationwide participation in this sacred event.
The Arbaeen pilgrimage continues to stand as a testament to faith, resilience, and the shared spiritual values of millions across the globe.
