The Expansion Projects Department at the Imam Hussain Holy Shrine has announced the completion of preparations for several new areas that will be opened to pilgrims during the observance of the 10th of Muharram, as part of a comprehensive plan to accommodate larger crowds and facilitate the movement of visitors.

Speaking to the Shrine’s official website, Hussain Redha Mahdi, Head of the Expansion Projects Department, said the Holy Shrine remains committed to providing high-quality services for pilgrims by expanding available space and improving access during major pilgrimage events.

Mahdi explained that the areas entering service for Ashura include the basements of the Holy Courtyard, covering 4,000 square meters; a section of the Al-Aqila Zainab Courtyard project, spanning 30,000 square meters; part of the Imam Al-Hassan Courtyard project, covering 14,000 square meters; and a section of the Great Messenger Courtyard project, measuring 10,000 square meters. These additions are intended to increase visitor capacity and provide greater space for the performance of religious rituals.

He noted that the newly prepared areas complement the existing Holy Courtyard of Imam Hussain (peace be upon him), which together cover approximately 36,000 square meters. As a result, the total area available to pilgrims during the 10th of Muharram observances will reach nearly 94,000 square meters.

Mahdi added that the Holy Shrine continues to implement expansion projects aimed at enhancing services for visitors. He revealed that a new phase of development work within the Imam Al-Hassan Al-Mujtaba Courtyard will begin following the conclusion of the Ashura commemorations, with the goal of providing additional space ahead of the annual Arbaeen pilgrimage.

The Imam Hussain Holy Shrine is currently undertaking several large-scale expansion projects as part of its ongoing efforts to serve pilgrims and ensure the smooth movement of mourning processions, particularly during the Tuwaireej Run and other major pilgrimage events that attract millions of visitors each year.