Iraq Ziarat visa policy 2025 updated with new travel restriction

The Iraqi government has recently announced new rules for people who want to visit the country’s sacred religious sites. These guidelines are mainly focused on managing the large number of visitors who arrive every year for Ziarat, which is one of the most important spiritual journeys for Muslims.

According to the new policy, men under the age of 50 will not be allowed to apply for a pilgrimage visa if they are traveling alone. This decision has been taken to make the pilgrimage process more organized and to avoid overcrowding during religious gatherings. However, men under 50 can still apply for a visa if they are traveling with their families or in a group.

Authorities explained that these steps will help in better management of the pilgrims, especially during peak times when millions of people visit Iraq’s holy cities. By restricting solo travel for younger men, officials believe that the process will become smoother and safer for everyone.

This new regulation will directly affect thousands of potential pilgrims from different countries, particularly those who are used to traveling alone for religious purposes. Many people in Pakistan, Iran, Lebanon, and other Muslim-majority countries make this sacred journey every year. Officials have strongly advised all pilgrims to carefully review the updated requirements before finalizing their travel plans.

The Ziarat pilgrimage carries immense spiritual value for Muslims around the world. For Shia Muslims especially, visiting the shrines of revered Islamic figures in Iraq is a deeply emotional and faith-strengthening experience. Every year, huge numbers of people from Pakistan, Iran, India, and other parts of the world travel to Iraq and Iran to perform Ziarat.

Among the most visited places are the holy cities of Karbala and Najaf. In Karbala, pilgrims pay their respects at the shrine of Imam Hussain (RA), while in Najaf, they visit the shrine of Imam Ali (RA). These visits are not only acts of devotion but also serve as reminders of Islamic history, sacrifice, and the values of faith and courage.

For many believers, the journey of Ziarat is more than just travel; it is a way to connect with their religion, renew their faith, and remember the sacrifices made by the family of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It strengthens their spiritual bond and gives them a sense of peace, belonging, and hope.

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