ISLAMABAD – The Pakistani government has officially banned road travel to Iran and Iraq for the upcoming Arbaeen pilgrimage, citing national and public security concerns. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced the decision on Sunday, stating it was taken after detailed discussions with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Balochistan Government, and security agencies.
In a social media post, Naqvi acknowledged that it was a difficult choice, but necessary in view of rising security threats. However, he confirmed that pilgrims would still be allowed to travel by air. He further stated that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had directed the authorities to arrange the maximum number of flights to ensure ease of travel for all pilgrims.
To support this shift, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will launch a special Arbaeen flight operation starting August 8. Flights from Pakistan to Najaf will operate between August 8 and 11, while return flights are scheduled from August 18 to 23. The fare for each ticket has been set at $675. However, many pilgrims are urging PIA to lower the fare and increase the number of flights.
During a meeting with the prime minister, Naqvi also discussed the law and order situation in Balochistan. PM Shehbaz instructed him to immediately begin the Gwadar Safe City project, which aims to improve security using advanced technology for surveillance and evidence collection. The project was first approved in February 2023 with a budget of Rs4.97 billion.
Additionally, a new travel system will be introduced from January 1, 2026, under which only registered organizers will be allowed to arrange pilgrim journeys. This move is expected to make the entire process more organized and secure for travelers.
The holy city of Karbala in Iraq, where Imam Hussein and his brother Abbas are buried, remains the focal point for millions of Shia pilgrims during Arbaeen. Last year, over 21 million people participated in the pilgrimage, highlighting the scale and importance of this religious event.