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The World Through a Lens

From Iraq, an Intimate Glimpse of the Religious Holiday of Arbaeen

Every year, millions of pilgrims descend on the central Iraqi city of Karbala to commemorate the Shiite holiday of Arbaeen, one of the largest organized gatherings in the world.

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Photographs and Text by Andrea DiCenzo

• Published Nov. 9, 2020 Updated Nov. 18, 2020

At the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, with travel restrictions in place worldwide, we launched a new series — The World Through a Lens — in which photojournalists help transport you, virtually, to some of our planet’s most beautiful and intriguing places. This week, Andrea DiCenzo shares a collection of images from central Iraq, taken in 2019.

The walls of the Imam Abbas shrine in Iraq’s holy city of Karbala seemed to heave and sway with the boisterous, devoted crowd. By holding onto a rope, ushers partitioned a makeshift runway from one entrance of the mosque to another. This was the stage where a parade of religious men and women would perform latom, or ritual chest-beating, and other forms of ceremonial mourning.

The first group was understated: Dressed in black outfits that were deliberately muddied and torn, the group of Iraqi pilgrims beat their chests in unison. They cried out in grief — “Oh, Hussein!” they shouted, in reference to a 7th-century Islamic leader — so loudly that they cut through the music blaring from the speakers dragged behind them. The next group was younger and rowdier. In an explosion of chaotic energy, these young devotees struck at themselves and at each other with abandon.

This wasn’t a normal day at the Imam Abbas shrine. This was Arbaeen, and the shrine would see some 15 million visitors and thousands of religious performances pass through its red glow before the two-day event concluded.

Every year, millions of pilgrims descend on the central Iraqi city of Karbala, a usually quiet desert city, to commemorate the religious holiday of Arbaeen, one of the largest organized gatherings of people in the world. The events center on two adjacent mosques: the Imam Hussein and Imam Abbas shrines.

The event is a spectacular display of grief, mourning and religious ecstasy. It commemorates the death of one of Shiite Islam’s most important leaders, Imam Hussein, a grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. Hussein is said to have died 1340 years ago in the dusty plains of Karbala. A grave was established to commemorate his death, and the city of Karbala, in what is now modern-day Iraq, slowly built around it over time.

In 2019, when a colleague told me the Imam Abbas shrine was inviting a small group of journalists to visit during Arbaeen, I jumped at the chance to go. The shrine was instrumental in organizing my stay in Karbala; they arranged my tourist visa and helped me negotiate travel both within Iraq and among the massive crowds in Karbala. (I paid my own travel expenses but was given a room at a modest hotel owned by the Imam Abbas shrine.)

My only moment of uncertainty came shortly before heading inside the Imam Abbas shrine. A group of clerics at the shrine queried whether it would be appropriate for me, a woman, to rove around and take photographs. After deliberating for 15 minutes, they permitted me to enter. It was hard to tell if I had fallen on the winning side of a religious debate, or if the rightly famous Iraqi sense of hospitality had simply won out.

Tradition holds that, in A.D. 680, Hussein and his followers were on their way to challenge the succession of Caliph Yazid, whom they saw as an illegitimate successor after the death of Prophet Muhammad, the founder of Islam. Yazid responded by sending a massive army to intercept Hussein, who continued to refuse allegiances with the Caliph. A battle ensued, and Hussein and all his followers were massacred. To this day, Hussein’s death is a defining drama of the Shiite faith and, in Christ-like fashion, remains powerfully resonant.

Nowhere is this more visible than in Karbala during Arbaeen.

Every year after the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003 — until 2020 — millions of pilgrims have traveled to Karbala, 60 miles southwest of the capital Baghdad. In the years of relative calm since 2010, the city of Karbala, together with its sister holy city of Najaf, the seat of Iraq’s pre-eminent Shiite clerical establishment, have become major centers of economic power and theological influence. This was unthinkable under the dictatorship of Saddam Hussein, when Shiite religious events were banned, and clerics were hounded from Iraq.

Last year saw the shrines at their peak. Once inside, pilgrims offered a religious and cultural demonstration to express their love for Imam Hussein, often through choreographed chanting and flag twirling, but sometimes through violent (and less choreographed) flagellation, like the intense display I witnessed on the first day. In either case, nearly everyone was in tears, grieving. An astonishing number of people passed out from the emotional intensity of the experience.

Many of the pilgrims within Iraq and from neighboring Iran make the journey by foot, trekking and camping for hundreds of miles along routes lined with stalls that dispense hot meals and encouragement. In recent years, Iraqis and Iranians have been joined by hundreds of thousands of religious tourists from a growing number of countries outside the Middle East, including the United Kingdom, Bosnia, Pakistan, Malaysia and Australia.

Most foreigners come as groups organized by Iraqi travel agencies specializing in pilgrim tours. Individual visas are by invitation from one of the city’s two shrines. But, in comparison to Hajj, a similarly significant pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, what makes Arbaeen unique is the fact that the shrines actively invite leaders and people of other faiths.

Of course, this year has proved to be anything but ordinary. Iraq’s religious tourism industry — which, until 2020, was the country’s largest non-oil economic sector — has been decimated. And for Arbaeen, which began on Oct. 7 and ended on Oct. 8, the government issued only a few thousand religious tourism visas. Clerical and health authorities are worried that continuing rites at the holy cities might become super-spreader events.

This year, as a result, Arbaeen was once again mostly for Iraqis.

Andrea DiCenzo is an American photojournalist whose work focuses on armed conflict and humanitarian crises throughout the Middle East. You can follow her work on Instagram .

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Christian pilgrimages to Iraq may resume

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Pope Francis’s visit to Iraq paved the way, and now, there are serious efforts to reestablish the historic city of Ur as a place of pilgrimage.

Just two months after the apostolic visit, representatives of a dozen Churches from around the world will gather in Ur of the Chaldeans, the city from which Abraham set off on his journey to the Promised Land. 

On Saturday, members of the delegation will pray together at Abraham’s home, in a pilgrimage that also aims to express the hope of seeing the flow of pilgrimages in that area resume and grow, according to Fides , the information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies. 

The Christian leaders were in Basra Friday for the installation of Syrian Catholic Bishop Firas Mundher Drdr as Patriarchal Exarch of Basra and the Gulf. The inauguration ceremony will be attended by the Syrian Catholic Patriarch of Antioch, Ignace Youssif III Younan. 

On Saturday, the patriarch and the other clergy present at the inauguration will visit Ur. Their visit is seen as part of an attempt to promote the area as a pilgrimage destination. Fides explained: 

The desire for increased religious and archaeological tourism in Ur and throughout the Iraqi governorate of Dhi Qar has been at the center of conversations between ecclesiastical representatives and local and national civil authorities on several occasions, along with the call to dedicate more attention and resources to the tourism sector. The Inspectorate for Antiquities of Dhi Qar has already explored the possibility of involving NGOs and international organizations as potential partners in projects aimed at developing tourist infrastructures around the ancient city of Ur. The location in Ur of the House of Abraham represents a potential, undeniable incentive to encourage religious tourism in the area.

Pope John Paul II had desired to visit Ur as part of his observance of the third Christian millennium, but the geopolitical situation at the time prevented the trip. Pope Francis on March 6 participated in an interreligious prayer service there, in the midst of the first papal visit to Iraq. 

Although Iraq, with a Christian history dating back to Apostolic times, can be considered part of the Holy Land, and Ur is seen as an early milestone in Salvation History, Christian pilgrims in Ur have been few and far between in recent decades. One notable exception took place in 2016, when some 200 Chaldeans from Baghdad, including Chaldean Bishop Basilio Yaldo and seven priests, made a pilgrimage there. On that occasion, a Eucharistic Liturgy was celebrated at the archaeological site, not far from the Sumerian Ziggurat, under a tent set up in memory of Abraham.

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Religious Tourism, Economic Development, and Sustainable Tourism Development: A Case of Iraq

2022, IJMRAP

The research aims to analyze the reality of religious tourism in Iraq and its role in the development of the Iraqi economy, as the elements of religious tourism in Iraq were reviewed, represented by the shrines of a large number of prophets (peace be upon him), the infallible imams (peace be upon them), the saints and the righteous (may God be pleased with him), as well as the shrines and mosques that have their sanctity in history Al-Kufa Mosque, Al-Sahla Mosque, Basra Mosque, and Al-Hanana Mosque. Iraq includes most of the Muslim shrines and sanctities, as about 90 percent of the shrines of the prophets and saints, shrines and shrines in the Arab countries. However, it has been found that tourism's contribution is weak and not commensurate with what the country possesses in religious tourism components and other components. Tourism revenues, according to the highest estimates, do not exceed at best $10.9 billion according to the data of 2020, as the available elements of the tourism offer have not been optimally exploited. One of the most important recommendations of the research is to pay attention to religious tourism and provide the necessary facilities for visitors and work to expand and develop the holy cities to increase their absorptive capacity, support the private sector and allow it to invest in the field of religious tourism and overcome the difficulties it faces to play its role in promoting the tourism sector.

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The impact of COVID-19 on religious tourism and pilgrimage to the holy city of Karbala

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Religious tourism and pilgrimage around the world have changed dramatically in response to the Coronavirus pandemic, thousands of sacred placed closed their doors; religious leaders appealed to their followers not to perform their spiritual or pilgrimage journeys for their own and others safety. The holy city of Karbala, like any other sacred place is affected by the pandemic; every year, the holy city of Karbala witnesses the convergence of millions of pilgrims, being among the most important pilgrims for Shia Muslims. Of particular importance for these pilgrims is Ashura, which marks the day that Hussain bin Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, was killed in the Battle of Karbala and subsequently, Arbaeen (Arba’een), or the forty days of mourning, that follow. The religious tourism sector in Iraq has been witnessing a continuous decline since demonstrations against the government began last October 2019, but the spread of Coronavirus in the world has had a severe impact on the tourism industry in Iraq and in Karbala in particular. The country closed its borders with Iran and other neighbouring countries, and prevented gatherings, including religious events, to avoid the outbreak of the coronavirus. Under the direction of the Iraqi Ministry of Health, religious cities have stopped receiving tourists and pilgrims from inside and outside the country. Karbala has experienced a significant decline in the number of visitors for the past number of months, a decline never witnessed before. The tourism industry is seriously impacted as a result; hotels, restaurants & local shops are suffering the most. © International Journal of Religious Tourism and Pilgrimage

Tourism in Iraq

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Tourism in Iraq is growing. But why is this industry so important and how should it best be managed? Read on to find out…

Geography of Iraq

Tourism in iraq , statistics about tourism in ira, the most popular tourist attractions iraq, the most popular types of tourism iraq, the economic impacts of tourism in iraq, the social impacts of tourism in iraq, the environmental impacts of tourism in iraq, crime and safety iraq , the types of tourists travel iraq, faqs about tourism in iraq, to conclude: tourism in iraq.

Iraq is a country located in Western Asia, with a population of approximately 40 million people. It is bordered by Turkey to the north, Iran to the east, Kuwait to the southeast, Saudi Arabia to the south, Jordan to the southwest, and Syria to the west.

The geography of Iraq is largely characterized by two major rivers, the Tigris and Euphrates, which flow through the country from the northwest to the southeast, ultimately emptying into the Persian Gulf. These rivers have played a significant role in shaping the country’s history, providing water for agriculture and serving as important trade routes.

In addition to the rivers, Iraq features a variety of landscapes, including mountains, plains, and deserts. The northern part of the country is mountainous, with the Zagros Mountains extending into the northeast from neighboring Iran. The central and southern parts of the country are dominated by a vast desert plateau known as the Arabian Desert, which includes the vast Rub’ al-Khali (Empty Quarter) desert in the south.

The climate of Iraq is largely desert or semi-arid, with hot summers and mild winters. The country also experiences periodic droughts and sandstorms.

Iraq is home to a variety of ethnic and religious groups, including Arabs, Kurds, Turkmen, Assyrians, and others. The country has a rich cultural heritage, with historic sites such as the ancient city of Babylon and the ziggurat at Ur, as well as more recent landmarks such as the Al-Askari Shrine in Samarra. However, Iraq has also faced significant political instability and violence in recent decades, including the Gulf War, the Iraq War, and ongoing sectarian conflict.

The tourism industry in Iraq has been greatly affected by decades of political instability and violence. However, in recent years, the government has made efforts to revive the industry and promote Iraq as a tourist destination.

Iraq has a rich cultural and historical heritage, with numerous historic sites and landmarks, including the ancient city of Babylon, the ruins of Nineveh, the ancient city of Ur, and the Al-Askari Shrine in Samarra. The country also has several national parks and nature reserves, including the Mesopotamian Marshes, which were designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2016.

To promote tourism, the Iraqi government has launched several initiatives, including the creation of a tourism board and the establishment of visa-free entry for citizens of several countries, including Iran, Turkey, and Egypt. The government has also invested in infrastructure and facilities to support tourism, including the construction of new hotels and the renovation of historic sites.

Despite these efforts, the tourism industry in Iraq still faces significant challenges, including ongoing security concerns and a lack of adequate infrastructure in some areas. However, with continued investment and support, Iraq has the potential to become a popular tourist destination and contribute to the country’s economic growth.

Now, lets demonstrate how significant tourism in Iraq is but highlighting some of the key statistics:

In 2018, the number of foreign visitors to Iraq was estimated to be around 1.8 million, up from 1.4 million in 2017.

The majority of foreign visitors to Iraq in 2018 came from neighboring countries, including Iran, Turkey, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia.

The tourism industry in Iraq is estimated to have contributed around $1.6 billion to the country’s GDP in 2018.

The Iraqi government has set a target of attracting 5 million foreign visitors per year by 2025.

In 2019, the Iraqi government launched a tourism campaign called “Visit Iraq” to promote the country as a tourist destination.

The Mesopotamian Marshes, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, are one of Iraq’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting around 200,000 visitors per year.

In recent years, several new hotels and resorts have been built in Iraq, including the five-star Babylon Rotana Hotel in Baghdad and the Palm Beach Hotel in Basra.

The Al-Askari Shrine in Samarra, one of Iraq’s most important religious sites, has been rebuilt following a terrorist attack in 2006.

Iraq has a small but growing ecotourism industry, with tours of the Mesopotamian Marshes and other natural areas available.

Despite ongoing security concerns, some adventurous travelers have reported positive experiences visiting Iraq in recent years, citing the country’s friendly people, rich cultural heritage, and stunning landscapes.

Tourism in Iraq is largely popular due to its range of tourist attractions. Here are the major examples:

The ancient city of Babylon – Located south of Baghdad, this historic city is home to the ruins of the ancient Hanging Gardens of Babylon, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

The ruins of Nineveh – Located near the city of Mosul, these ruins were once the capital of the Assyrian Empire and are home to several historic sites, including the Tomb of Jonah and the Palace of King Sennacherib.

The ziggurat at Ur – Located in southern Iraq, this ancient stepped pyramid is one of the best-preserved examples of Mesopotamian architecture.

The Al-Askari Shrine – Located in Samarra, this important Shiite Muslim shrine was damaged in a terrorist attack in 2006 but has since been rebuilt and is now one of Iraq’s most important religious sites.

The Mesopotamian Marshes – Located in southeastern Iraq, these marshes are home to a unique ecosystem and are a popular destination for ecotourists.

The Citadel of Erbil – Located in the northern city of Erbil, this historic fortress is one of the oldest continuously inhabited sites in the world.

The Basra War Cemetery – Located in the southern city of Basra, this cemetery is a memorial to the soldiers who died during the First and Second World Wars.

The Kurdish region – Located in northern Iraq, this region is home to several natural attractions, including the Zagros Mountains, the Gali Ali Beg Canyon, and the Harir Valley.

The Martyr Monument – Located in Baghdad, this monument commemorates the Iraqi soldiers who died in the Iran-Iraq War.

There are many types of tourism in Iraq, here are the most common:

Cultural tourism – Many visitors come to Iraq to explore the country’s rich cultural heritage, including ancient ruins, historic cities, and important religious sites. Popular cultural attractions include the ancient city of Babylon, the ruins of Nineveh, and the Al-Askari Shrine in Samarra.

Historical tourism – Iraq has a long and complex history, with many important events and figures that have shaped the country and the wider region. Historical tourism is a popular way to explore this heritage, with sites like the Citadel of Erbil and the Basra War Cemetery attracting many visitors.

Religious tourism – As a predominantly Muslim country, Iraq is an important destination for Muslim tourists seeking to explore their faith and visit important religious sites. The Al-Askari Shrine in Samarra is one of the most important religious sites in the country and attracts many visitors each year.

Ecotourism – Iraq is home to several natural attractions, including the Mesopotamian Marshes and the Kurdish region, which offer opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities. Ecotourism is a growing industry in Iraq, attracting visitors who are interested in exploring the country’s unique ecosystems and natural beauty.

Adventure tourism – Despite ongoing security concerns, some adventurous travelers visit Iraq to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations and experience the country’s rich culture and heritage. This type of tourism is not for everyone and requires careful planning and preparation, but can be a rewarding way to explore this fascinating country.

While the tourism industry in Iraq is still developing, there are already some notable impacts of tourism on the country. Here are some of the exotic impacts of tourism in Iraq:

Economic growth – Tourism has the potential to generate significant revenue for Iraq, creating jobs and supporting local businesses. As the tourism industry in the country continues to grow, it could help diversify the economy and support sustainable development.

Cultural preservation – The tourism industry can help preserve cultural heritage sites in Iraq by providing funds for their maintenance and restoration. This can help ensure that these important sites are preserved for future generations.

Increased awareness and understanding – As more tourists visit Iraq, there is an opportunity for increased awareness and understanding of the country’s culture and history. This can help break down stereotypes and misconceptions, promoting greater cross-cultural understanding and empathy.

Environmental conservation – Ecotourism can support conservation efforts in Iraq by raising awareness about the importance of preserving natural habitats and wildlife. This can help protect sensitive ecosystems and promote sustainable tourism practices.

Improved infrastructure – The development of the tourism industry in Iraq can lead to improvements in infrastructure, including transportation networks, accommodations, and other amenities. This can benefit not only tourists but also local residents by improving access to services and creating jobs in related industries.

However, it is worth noting that the impact of tourism on Iraq is still limited due to ongoing security concerns and infrastructure challenges. The country also faces significant cultural and social challenges, and the responsible development of the tourism industry will require careful planning and collaboration between stakeholders to ensure that the benefits are maximised and the negative impacts are minimised.

The tourism industry in Iraq has the potential to generate social impacts, both positive and negative. Here are some of the social impacts of tourism in Iraq:

Increased cultural exchange and understanding – Tourism can facilitate cultural exchange between tourists and local communities, promoting greater understanding and appreciation of different cultures. This can help break down stereotypes and promote greater empathy and understanding between people from different backgrounds.

Employment opportunities – The development of the tourism industry can create employment opportunities for local residents, including those in rural areas. This can help to reduce poverty and improve living standards for local communities.

Increased awareness of social issues – As tourists interact with local communities, they may become more aware of social issues affecting the country, such as poverty, gender inequality, and discrimination. This can lead to increased awareness and support for social justice causes.

Disruption of traditional ways of life – The influx of tourists can disrupt traditional ways of life for local communities, leading to changes in culture, values, and social norms. This can lead to tensions and conflicts between tourists and locals, and may threaten the preservation of local cultures and traditions.

Social inequality – The benefits of tourism may not be evenly distributed across society, with some communities and individuals benefiting more than others. This can exacerbate social inequalities and lead to resentment and tensions within local communities.

Degradation of cultural heritage – Uncontrolled tourism development can lead to the degradation of cultural heritage sites, through overuse, poor maintenance, or commercialization. This can threaten the preservation of important cultural assets, and may erode the authenticity and significance of local cultures.

Overall, the social impacts of tourism in Iraq are complex and multifaceted. The responsible development of the tourism industry will require careful consideration of these impacts, and a commitment to ensuring that the benefits of tourism are maximized and the negative impacts are minimizedThe tourism industry in Iraq has the potential to generate social impacts, both positive and negative. Here are some of the social impacts of tourism in Iraq:

Increased cultural exchange and understanding – Tourism in Iraq can facilitate cultural exchange between tourists and local communities, promoting greater understanding and appreciation of different cultures. This can help break down stereotypes and promote greater empathy and understanding between people from different backgrounds.

Social inequality – The benefits of tourism in Iraq may not be evenly distributed across society, with some communities and individuals benefiting more than others. This can exacerbate social inequalities and lead to resentment and tensions within local communities.

Overall, the social impacts of tourism in Iraq are complex and multifaceted. The responsible development of the tourism industry will require careful consideration of these impacts, and a commitment to ensuring that the benefits of tourism are maximised and the negative impacts are minimised ..

The tourism industry in Iraq can also have significant environmental impacts. Here are some of the environmental impacts of tourism in Iraq:

Damage to natural habitats – The development of tourism infrastructure can lead to habitat destruction, particularly in sensitive ecosystems such as wetlands and coastal areas. This can lead to the loss of important wildlife habitats and threaten biodiversity.

Increased pollution – As the number of tourists increases, so does the amount of waste generated, including plastics and other non-biodegradable materials. This can lead to increased pollution, particularly in areas with limited waste management infrastructure.

Resource depletion – Tourism in Iraq can increase demand for natural resources such as water and energy, putting pressure on local resources and potentially exacerbating existing resource scarcity issues.

Climate change – Tourism in Iraq can be a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly through air travel. This can exacerbate climate change, leading to a range of environmental impacts such as sea level rise, increased extreme weather events, and ecosystem disruption.

Wildlife disturbance – Uncontrolled tourism in Iraq can lead to wildlife disturbance, through activities such as off-road driving, excessive noise, and hunting. This can disrupt natural ecosystems and threaten the survival of wildlife species.

Water pollution – Tourism activities can contribute to water pollution, through activities such as sewage discharge and littering. This can have significant impacts on water quality and human health, particularly in areas where clean water is already scarce.

Overall, the tourism industry in Iraq must be developed with careful consideration of these environmental impacts. Sustainable tourism practices, such as reducing waste and energy use, protecting natural habitats, and promoting responsible wildlife viewing, can help to mitigate these impacts and ensure that the benefits of tourism are maximized while minimizing negative environmental impacts.

Resource depletion – Tourism can increase demand for natural resources such as water and energy, putting pressure on local resources and potentially exacerbating existing resource scarcity issues.

Climate change – Tourism can be a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly through air travel. This can exacerbate climate change, leading to a range of environmental impacts such as sea level rise, increased extreme weather events, and ecosystem disruption.

Wildlife disturbance – Uncontrolled tourism can lead to wildlife disturbance, through activities such as off-road driving, excessive noise, and hunting. This can disrupt natural ecosystems and threaten the survival of wildlife species.

Overall, the tourism industry in Iraq must be developed with careful consideration of these environmental impacts. Sustainable tourism practices, such as reducing waste and energy use, protecting natural habitats, and promoting responsible wildlife viewing, can help to mitigate these impacts and ensure that the benefits of tourism are maximised while minimising negative environmental impacts.

Due to the security situation and ongoing conflicts in some parts of the country, tourism in Iraq is not as developed as in many other countries in the region. As a result, the types of tourists who travel to Iraq tend to be limited in number and specific in their interests. Here are some of the types of tourists who may travel to Iraq:

Business travelers – Iraq has significant oil reserves and a growing economy, which attracts a number of business travelers to the country. These travelers may visit for meetings, negotiations, and other business-related activities.

Religious pilgrims – Iraq is home to a number of important religious sites, including the Shia holy cities of Najaf and Karbala, which attract Shia Muslim pilgrims from around the world.

History and culture enthusiasts – Iraq has a rich history and culture, with important archaeological sites and cultural attractions such as the ancient city of Babylon and the National Museum of Iraq in Baghdad. Travelers interested in history and culture may visit Iraq to learn more about the country’s past and present.

Adventure travelers – Despite the security risks, there are some adventurous travelers who may be drawn to Iraq for its rugged landscapes and off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Diplomats and journalists – Iraq is home to a number of foreign diplomats and journalists who may travel to the country for work-related purposes.

Overall, tourism in Iraq is limited, and the types of tourists who travel to the country tend to have specific interests or reasons for visiting. It is important for visitors to carefully consider the security situation and take appropriate precautions to ensure their safety.

Now that we know a bit more about tourism in Iraq, lets answer some of the most common questions on this topic:

Iraq safe for tourists?

Answer: Iraq has been affected by conflicts and political instability in recent years, and the security situation in some areas is still volatile. Therefore, the U.S. State Department has issued a Level 4 travel advisory for Iraq, which advises against all travel to the country. This means that the U.S. government does not recommend travel to Iraq for any reason.

Can tourists obtain a visa to enter Iraq?

Answer: Yes, tourists can obtain a visa to enter Iraq by applying at an Iraqi embassy or consulate in their home country. However, the visa application process can be lengthy and complicated, and travelers may need to provide additional documentation to support their application.

What are the popular tourist destinations in Iraq?

Answer: Iraq has a rich cultural and historical heritage, and there are several popular tourist destinations in the country, including the ancient city of Babylon, the ruins of the ancient city of Nineveh, the Kurdish region in the north, and the city of Najaf, which is an important center of Shia Islam.

What is the best time of year to visit Iraq?

Answer: The best time to visit Iraq is during the spring (March-May) or the fall (September-November), when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summers can be hot and dry, while winters can be cold and rainy.

What types of accommodations are available for tourists in Iraq?

Answer: There are a variety of accommodations available for tourists in Iraq, including hotels, guesthouses, and hostels. However, the quality of these accommodations can vary widely, and visitors should do their research before booking a place to stay.

What is the currency used in Iraq?

Answer: The currency used in Iraq is the Iraqi dinar (IQD).

Can tourists use credit cards in Iraq?

Answer: Credit cards are not widely accepted in Iraq, and visitors should be prepared to use cash for most transactions.

What is the official language of Iraq?

Answer: The official language of Iraq is Arabic, but Kurdish and other languages are also spoken in certain regions of the country.

What should tourists wear when visiting Iraq?

Answer: Iraq is a conservative country, and visitors should dress modestly when in public. Women should cover their heads and wear long-sleeved shirts and pants or long skirts. Men should also dress conservatively and avoid wearing shorts.

What are the transportation options for tourists in Iraq?

Answer: Transportation options for tourists in Iraq include taxis, buses, and rental cars. However, visitors should be aware that the road network in some areas of the country is poorly maintained, and driving can be hazardous.

As you can see, tourism in Iraq is a very important industry that brings many benefits to the local area and community. However, in order to ensure that tourism is sustainable, it must be carefully managed.

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The tourism and travel sector is a very vast sector that is integrated with many different industries and other sectors such as hospitality, accommodation, transportation, food and beverages, catering, and others. The tourism sector can contribute to the non-oil economy, diversify the means of income, create jobs, and support the private sector businesses operating in this field, in return, playing a role in the development of the economy. Globally, travel and tourism have contributed to around 10.4% of the global gross domestic product (GDP) in 2019 (The United Nations World Tourism Organization, 2019).

Iraq is a country that has a very rich history and myriad cultures that extend back to the first known civilizations. It is the heart of many astounding historical, archaeological, and religious sites. It also enjoys a diverse natural landscape from the mountains and waterfalls in the north to the marshes in the south.

Hence, this provides many opportunities for domestic and international tourism to thrive. In 2019, this sector provided 165,033 jobs in Iraq and contributed to around 1.9% of employment (World Travel and Tourism Council, 2019)

This report offers an overview of the tourism sector in Iraq as it examines the reality of the sector through several lenses using the available data and resources. In 2008, the international arrival of tourists was 864,000 and reached its highest value of 1.5 million tourists in 2010 but started decreasing ever since to reach 892,000 tourists in 2013.

International tourism receipts sharply decreased since 2016 to hit 1.98 billion USD in 2018 but it recovered to score their highest record in 2019 with 3.59 billion USD, however, they contributed to a share of 4.04% only of exports that year. 

Moreover, this report follows the segmentation of the Central Statistical Organization in reporting the data where two seasons are identified, the normal, and the peak. The report also analyzes the relative distribution of tourists according to different factors including the purpose of the trip, gender, nationality, country of residence, and the duration of stay. Iraq has witnessed the arrival of a total of 137,143 tourists in 2019 during the normal period, while the number of tourists reached 5,993,217 during the peak period. Around 35.5% of tourists visited Iraq for religious tourism in the normal season while this percentage grew to around 72% in the peak period.

In addition, the report focuses on three main types of tourism, culture and heritage, nature and leisure, and religious tourism. It also goes into tourism expenditures for each type and provides brief introductions of some of the main tourist sites and attractions in Iraq.

The report also offers a glimpse into the hospitality sector in Iraq due to its inseparable function from the tourism sector. Restaurants hold the largest share of this sector as it was estimated to contribute to a swapping 89% of this sector in Iraq and 77% in Kurdistan in 2013. (UNESCO, 2019).

The number of hotels and tourist accommodations has reached 1666 accommodations in 2018. The majority of these complexes are located in Karbala by 44.9%, while Baghdad has a share of 23.1% and Najaf has 23.2%. The private sector prevails in the hospitality industry as 99.6% of tourist accommodations are private.

Furthermore, the report touches on the importance of Information and communications technology (ICT) in the tourism sector as it adopts new business models that accelerate its expansion. The report also identifies some of the startups operating in this sector in Iraq and the MENA region. And finally, concludes with the main issues and recommendations.

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Please note you do not have access to teaching notes, a networking approach to analyzing religious tourism businesses: the case of al-atabat al-aliyat in iraq.

Journal of Islamic Marketing

ISSN : 1759-0833

Article publication date: 27 March 2020

Issue publication date: 23 February 2021

Within a religious tourism destination, the study of business networks can be used to improve understanding of the interactions taking place within or among businesses, by exploring the informal and formal connections linking them together. Hence, the purpose of this study is to map and analyze strategic business networks operating in a religious destination.

Design/methodology/approach

This research explores the networks of stakeholders associated with a religious context in an intensive single case study on Al-Atabat Al-Aliyat in Iraq through qualitative analysis. Multiple methods of data collection were used to build strategic networks promoting religious tourism in the Middle-East region. Key analysis practices include content analysis and social network analysis (SNA). The identified interrelationships between stakeholders were analyzed by using UCINet, an SNA tool.

The study reveals three different types of cooperation networks in the case of Al-Atabat Al-Aliyat, namely, a 67-actor continuous network, a 69-actor non-Arbaeen network and an 89-actor Arbaeen network. The results also pinpoint the need for more collaborative activities on the different levels of cooperation in the networks.

Practical implications

This paper provides important guidelines on how to manage the interrelationships within tourism networks in a religious destination such as Iraq. The findings highlight the acute need for establishing strategic and effective networks of stakeholders in Al-Atabat Al-Aliyat. Non-tangible, long-term and quantitative benefits can be found for tourism businesses investing time and money in religious networks in Iraq.

Originality/value

The research contributes to religious tourism literature, filling the gaps about how the interrelationships among the actors involved in a business network can evolve over time and influence the success of a certain religious destination.

• Network analysis
• Business network
• Strategic networks
• Religious tourism

Acknowledgements

The authors are grateful to the associate editor and the anonymous reviewers for their invaluable guidance and insightful comments. This paper is based on the fourth chapter of PhD dissertation of the fourth author under the title of “Modelling Dynamics of Religious Tourism Networks: A Future-Oriented Approach” at the Faculty of Management, University of Tehran, Iran.

Heidari, A. , Yazdani, H.R. , Saghafi, F. and Jalilvand, M.R. (2021), "A networking approach to analyzing religious tourism businesses: The case of Al-Atabat Al-Aliyat in Iraq", Journal of Islamic Marketing , Vol. 12 No. 2, pp. 427-450. https://doi.org/10.1108/JIMA-04-2019-0067

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Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited

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The Geopolitics of Iran pp 363–385 Cite as

Shia Geopolitics or Religious Tourism? Political Convergence of Iran and Iraq in the Light of Arbaeen Pilgrimage

• Mohammad Eslami   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0003-0283-1839 5 ,
• Morteza Bazrafshan   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-6134-856X 6 &
• Maryam Sedaghat   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-7298-0907 7  
• First Online: 14 September 2021

946 Accesses

6 Citations

Part of the book series: Studies in Iranian Politics ((STIRPO))

Relations between Iran and Iraq as two Muslim countries with a Shia majority have always been at the center of both political and academic debates. While the relations of the two countries were extremely overshadowed and exacerbated due to the Iran and Iraq war in 1980–1988, the U.S. military invasion of Iraq and the collapse of Saddam Hussein’s regime in 2003 provided a new opportunity for reviving Iran’s strategic relations with Iraq. Therefore, they sought to expand their relations in religious, political, economic, technology, and security spheres. One of the most important dimensions of Iran and Iraq’s political convergence has been projected in “Arbaeen Pilgrimage.” It also demonstrates the importance of Shia nations’ integration. Aiming to understand how Arbaeen pilgrimage led to Iran and Iraq political convergence, the present study draws on a unique survey with the participation of political and tourism experts as the respondents to the survey questionnaire. Findings of the research demonstrated that Arbaeen pilgrimage is a religious and politically led movement leading to Iran and Iraq political convergence and empowerment of Shia nations who represent the Shia geopolitics.

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During the past years, a remarkable number of Christians (from Syria, Iraq, Georgia, and Armenia) and Hindus (from India and Pakistan) participated in Arbaeen pilgrimage.

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Eslami, M., Bazrafshan, M., Sedaghat, M. (2021). Shia Geopolitics or Religious Tourism? Political Convergence of Iran and Iraq in the Light of Arbaeen Pilgrimage. In: Leandro, F.J.B.S., Branco, C., Caba-Maria, F. (eds) The Geopolitics of Iran. Studies in Iranian Politics. Palgrave Macmillan, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-16-3564-9_15

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Iraq banks on religious travel

Are the devout deterred by violence? Hotels by Iraqi holy sites are betting not.

BAGHDAD -- The Iraq Tourism Board isn't exactly a welcoming place.

Located on Haifa Street, once so dangerous it was called Fallujah after the blood-drenched city in Anbar province, its building is hidden behind blast walls. Entrance arcades are bricked up and finished off with menacing shards of glass.

These days, says board chairman Hamoud Al-Yakobi, tourism is a matter of faith. Literally.

"We depend on religious tourism," Al-Yakobi says. "There is no other tourism business here."

Five years after the U.S. invasion of Iraq, nearly all its tourists are Shiite pilgrims from Iran flocking to holy sites in Najaf, Karbala and other southern cities. Last year, more than 500,000 Iranian tourists crossed the border; 160,000 had come by the end of April this year.

A recent tourism conference in Najaf, home to the shrine of the Imam Ali, focused on building hotels and improving services for the devout, who have been less deterred by continuing violence.

In contrast, the Iraq Tourism Board has no offices in the USA and no immediate plans to woo intrepid Westerners. The latest issue of the board's tourism magazine is printed only in Arabic. Past editions also included English.

Al-Yakobi knows that it would take a leap of faith to get Western tourists back to the land between the Tigris and Euphrates. Ancient Mesopotamia may have been the cradle of civilization, but modern-day Iraq remains a basket case.

"We need more time," Al-Yakobi says, "because of the security situation."

American tourists are not permitted to travel independently in Iraq without an escort and must come as part of an organized group, Al-Yakobi says. Several Iraqi companies offer group tours complete with security.

"Tourists need protection against kidnapping," he says.

They also need basic amenities, many of which are lacking here. Nearly a dozen Baghdad hotels, including the Al-Hamra in the Karada district, claim "five-star" ratings. Discerning travelers might quibble, though, because most luxury hotels don't have dripping faucets, clanking air conditioners and a 12-page room-service menu that rarely can deliver enough dishes to fill one.

Religious tourism has been hit hard in the pandemic as sites close and pilgrimages are put on hold

Assistant Professor of Hospitality and Tourism, University of South Florida

Professor of Hospitality and Tourism, University of South Florida

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Religious tourism is among the oldest forms of planned travel and to this day remains a huge industry.

About 300 to 330 million tourists visit the world’s key religious sites every year, according to a 2017 estimate. Some 600 million national and international religious trips are made around the world, generating around US$18 billion in global revenues . It makes up a sizeable chunk of an overall tourism sector that has been significantly affected by the spread of the coroanvirus, with 63.8% of travelers reducing their travel plans as a result.

A concern of all faiths

As COVID-19 evolved to become a global pandemic, governments across the globe closed sacred sites and temporarily banned religious travel .

It has affected popular destinations of all faiths. Jerusalem , Vatican City and Mecca – which attract millions of Jewish, Christian and Muslim visitors annually – are among the worst affected.

Likewise, Buddhist sites such as Nepal’s Lumbini Temple and India’s Mahabodhi Temple , as well as the Hindu temple of Kashi Vishwanath , have seen a slump in visitors.

This has had huge financial implications for the host countries.

For example, last year approximately 2.5 million Muslims from around the world performed the hajj , one of the five pillars of Islam , with nearly 2 million coming from outside of Saudi Arabia.

However, this year only around 10,000 people were expected to do the pilgrimage while observing social distancing measures .

The Saudi Kingdom usually earns $12 billion per year from the hajj and the Umrah – a minor pilgrimage that can be done anytime during the year.

The pilgrimages are seen as a way to diversify the economy from being reliant on the oil sector. Year-round religious visits contributes to 20% of the kingdom’s nonoil GDP and around 7% of the total GDP.

The Saudi Kingdom’s economy is already reeling from the impact of low oil prices , which have led to a budget deficit. It is expected to shrink by 6.8% in 2020.

[ Get the best of The Conversation, every weekend. Sign up for our weekly newsletter .]

Religion and revenues

Saudi Arabia is far from alone. Jordan, which hosts 35 Islamic sites and shrines and 34 Christian holy sites , has closed its borders because of COVID-19. Tourism accounts for about 15% of the country’s GDP and sustains an estimated 55,000 jobs.

Last year more than 1 million travelers visited Wadi Musa, the Jordanian Valley of Moses – an important site where Moses is said to have produced water from a rock. Up to 80% of people’s income in the area relies on tourism .

Tourism revenues in Jordan dropped by 10.7% to $1.1 billion in the first quarter of 2020 as the pandemic spread.

It is a similar story across the Middle East.

In Iran, only 20,000 domestic tourists and 66 foreign tourists visited Yazd – a UNESCO world heritage site that dates back to A.D. 224 – between March and June 2020. The site is a holy place for followers of Islam, Judaism and Zoroastrianism. The number of tourists this year represents just 1% of the figure for the previous year .

In June, just 5,800 people visited Israel, a religiously important destination for Christians, Muslims and Jews alike, compared to 365,000 for the same month in 2019 . It is expected that the pandemic will result in a $1.16 billion damage to the country’s tourism industry , according to the Israel Hotel Association.

For some prominent individual sites of pilgrimage, the loss of revenue has been devastating – and it is an experience shared across the globe.

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in France usually welcomes up to 5 million visitors every year. But in order to curtail the spread in France, the shrine closed, offering only virtual pilgrimages . It has reportedly resulted in a deficit of $9.06 million for the sanctuary.

Many places of pilgrimage support a whole industry in travel, transport and accommodation, and all that has taken a hit.

For the entire travel industry, this unprecedented crisis has resulted in a $2.7 trillion drop in revenue and job losses in excess of 100 million in 2020. The United Nations World Tourism Organization estimates that for the year, international arrivals will be down by between 850 million to 1.1 billion , depending on when borders fully reopen.

Spiritual well-being

And it isn’t just about the financial hit. Uncertainty and anxiety related to COVID-19 also affects people’s psychological and mental health . Many people indulge in religious tourism for reasons of spiritual comfort or to pray for forgiveness or salvation.

For others it is a way to demonstrate their devotion to a faith . In some religions, there is a belief that all individuals who are healthy and financially able to should undertake a journey to their respective holy sites at least once in their lifetime. This is true, for example, for Muslims and participation in the hajj.

As such, people may have put away savings their entire life and planned for years for such a trip. Having to abandon these plans due to travel restrictions or the closure of religious sites can be particularly distressing.

Government subsidies and relief packages , along with the implementation of comprehensive safety and recovery measures, can help revive customer trust and lead to increased travel.

But as scholars of the travel industry, we do believe that due to the ongoing travel restrictions and a slump in confidence in travel amid the pandemic, countries with a heavy reliance on tourism will likely continue to face challenges. And the uncertainty and possibility of newer waves of virus may further dent the tourism industry, including religious travel.

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Holy Places And Religious Sites Tours

With a rich Islamic heritage spanning centuries, Iraq has played a vital role in shaping Islamic history and culture. Iraq is a land of immense religious and cultural significance. There are numerous Islamic places to visit in Iraq that are not only significant from a religious point of view but also offer a glimpse into the rich Islamic history of the region.

Religious tourism is one of the most popular forms of tourism in Iraq, with tens of millions of tourists from several countries visiting the various holy cities and religious sites located in Iraq every year. These include the Imam Ali Mosque in Najaf, the Al Abbas Holy Shrine and Imam Hussain’s Shrine in Karbala, Hassan Al Askari in Samara, Mousa Ibn Jaffar in Al-Kadhimiya Mosque, Abou Hanifa Mosque, and Abul Qader Al Qailani Mosque in Baghdad. In addition, 30 million pilgrims make their passage to the town of Karbala each year.

Whether you are a Muslim or not, visiting these places can be a life-changing experience, as they offer a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of Islamic art, architecture, and spirituality.

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Will return of Iranian Pilgrims revive Religious Tourism in Iraq?

From Amwaj Media . Any opinions expressed are those of the author(s), and do not necessarily reflect the views of Iraq Business News .

Will return of Iranian pilgrims revive Iraq's religious tourism sector?

The corona-virus pandemic has dealt a severe blow to Iraq's religious tourism sector over the past two years.

Back in 2020, the Iraqi government faced the same dilemma as other countries when considering measures to curtail the spread of the virus.

Baghdad's decision to close border crossings and sharply limit the entry of foreign nationals was met with consternation at home, particularly from Iraqis whose livelihoods depend on Shiite pilgrims.

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