Iraq is witnessing a significant revival in its tourism sector in 2025, marked by a rise in foreign visitors—particularly from Europe and the Americas. This growth is driven by improved security and economic conditions, coupled with robust government efforts to enhance tourism infrastructure.

Surge in Foreign Tourists

According to the Iraqi Tourism Authority, around 556 European and American tourists visited Iraq in 2024, with expectations for much higher numbers in 2025, especially after Baghdad was named the Arab Tourism Capital.

Key attractions such as Babylon, Ur, the Ziggurat of Akar Kuf, the National Museum, and Mustansiriya School have drawn increasing interest from tourists from the UK, France, Germany, Spain, and the U.S.

Arbaeen Pilgrimage 2025: National Mobilization

The Arbaeen Pilgrimage, one of the largest annual religious gatherings in the world, continues to attract millions of visitors. In 2024, over 3.4 million foreign pilgrims entered Iraq for Arbaeen. In preparation for the 2025 pilgrimage, the Iraqi government has launched a wide-ranging campaign to facilitate the movement and care of pilgrims, focusing on securing travel routes and expanding service capacity.

Government Measures and Infrastructure Development

To ease travel, Iraq has simplified visa procedures, waived fees for select countries, and invested in modernizing transportation and service facilities. Governors have been tasked with coordinating regional support, especially for routes leading to Karbala.

Services Provided by the Imam Hussain Holy Shrine

The Imam Hussain Holy Shrine plays a central role in serving Arbaeen pilgrims, offering:

Free Meals: Millions of meals prepared daily via kitchens and Mawkibs inside and outside Karbala.

Shelter: Sleeping arrangements in schools, Husseiniyas, and the shrine's courtyard.

Sanitation: 24/7 cleaning inside the shrine and along key roads.

Health and Emergency Services

Field Clinics & Hospitals: Medical units provide free treatment and emergency care.

Volunteer Staff: Thousands of doctors and nurses from Iraq and abroad serve pilgrims.

Ambulance Services: For transporting critical cases.

Security and Crowd Management

Crowd Control: Managed entry and exit routes to ensure smooth visitor flow.

Surveillance: Deployment of advanced camera systems.

Missing Persons Units: Centers to reunite missing children or elderly with families.

Awareness, Media & Digital Services

Guidance Materials: Brochures in multiple languages on religious and health practices.

Live Broadcasts: Coverage via the shrine’s radio and television channels.

Free Wi-Fi & Apps: Smart services to assist with navigation, rituals, and updates.

Transportation and Foreign Pilgrim Support

Free Buses: Shuttles from city entrances to the shrine and back.

Traffic Regulation: Streamlined routes from provinces and border crossings.

Translation Services: Support centers offering help in English, Persian, Urdu, and more.

Smart Technologies

Digital Maps & Apps: Tools for locating services, prayer times, and ritual guides.

Outlook

The surge in international tourism reflects Iraq’s progress in stabilizing its internal situation and promoting cultural and religious heritage. With continued investment and strategic planning, Iraq is poised for sustained growth in its tourism sector throughout 2025 and beyond.

Ali Fadhel