Govt limits 2026 Iran and Iraq pilgrimage travel to licensed groups

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has announced that starting January 2026, all pilgrimages will depart only through registered group organisers.

Minister of Religious Affairs Sardar Yousuf said that all preparations for pilgrimage travel by sea are complete. Soon, pilgrims will also be able to travel from Iran to Iraq by sea, giving them another travel option besides land and air routes.

The ministry has issued registration certificates to 67 new pilgrimage group organisers, raising the total number of licensed companies to 91. This step has been taken to better manage pilgrimage travel and ensure safety and accountability.

Sardar Yousuf stressed that the government is committed to providing safe, secure, and transparent travel arrangements for pilgrims. By allowing travel only through registered groups, authorities aim to reduce risks, improve coordination, and make the pilgrimage journey smoother and more organized.

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