IRCS Unveils Key Strategies for Enhancing Arbaeen Services and Management

The Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) is taking significant steps to enhance the management and services during the Arbaeen pilgrimage. Led by Pirhossein Kolivand, the head of IRCS, a set of eight core principles has been articulated to optimize humanitarian and cultural services. These principles are crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of millions participating in this monumental event.

During a recent address at the fifth international congress on Health in Arbaeen, Kolivand emphasized the importance of unity management among various institutions and organizations. He stated that relief, service, cultural, and security organizations must collaborate as a cohesive network to provide effective support during the pilgrimage.

Key Principles for Arbaeen Management

Kolivand outlined several key principles that guide the IRCS in its mission to enhance services during the Arbaeen pilgrimage:

• Service Provision: Ensuring comprehensive medical and relief services while maintaining discipline in safeguarding pilgrims’ health.
• International Recognition: The acknowledgment from international bodies, such as the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Society, highlights the global impact of the Arbaeen congress.
• Infrastructure Development: Improving medical, relief, cultural, and welfare services by establishing new infrastructures, including hospitals and mobile medical centers.
• Public Participation: Emphasizing the role of volunteers, who are instrumental in providing services during the pilgrimage.
• Addressing Expectations: Managing pilgrims’ demands and expectations effectively.
• Respecting Host Nation: Collaborating with Iraqi officials and respecting local customs, as Iraq is the main host of the pilgrimage.
• Civilizational Perspective: Developing programs based on a global outlook, emphasizing the significance of Arbaeen as a civilizational movement.

Kolivand described Arbaeen not merely as an annual event but as a global movement fostering human synergy through goodness and peace. This perspective is vital for enhancing the cultural and humanitarian dimensions of the pilgrimage.

IRCS Efforts During Arbaeen 2025

In 2025, the IRCS mobilized an impressive 8,200 rescue workers to provide services in Iraq during the Arbaeen pilgrimage. This dedicated team included relief workers, physicians, and nurses committed to ensuring the safety and health of pilgrims.

Kolivand noted that around 7,000 IRCS personnel were actively engaged along the routes and borders, demonstrating the organization’s comprehensive approach to support during this significant event.

Arbaeen commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein on the 40th day after Ashura and is recognized as the world’s largest annual pilgrimage. In 2025, this critical date fell on August 14.

Every year, millions of Shia believers travel the 80-kilometer Najaf-Karbala route in a powerful display of faith and unity, emphasizing themes of solidarity and the enduring quest for justice.

Healthcare Services for Pilgrims

To cater to the health needs of pilgrims, four hospitals were designated to operate along the Najaf-Karbala highway. Additionally, the number of medical mawkibs (voluntary stations) has expanded in key locations such as Karbala, Najaf, and Samarra.

Kolivand also highlighted the use of mobile applications to provide free medical, health, and nutritional consultations for pilgrims, ensuring easy access to essential services.

The IRCS deployed over 200 specialized vehicles and ambulances to facilitate their operations during the pilgrimage, ensuring rapid response to emergencies and healthcare needs.

Government Recognition of IRCS Services

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi praised the efforts of the IRCS in providing vital services during the Arbaeen pilgrimage. He noted the high volume of consultations at the IRCS clinic in Iraq, with around 800 pilgrims visiting between 3:00 and 9:00 am, and daily patient numbers peaking at approximately 4,000.

During his visit to an IRCS medical center in Najaf, Araghchi expressed gratitude for the wide range of services offered, including patient visits, injections, and serum administration, highlighting the commendable nature of the voluntary work being done.

From July 26 to August 14, the IRCS successfully provided health services to approximately 4.1 million pilgrims. This included visits to 1.05 million patients, with around 1.39 million receiving para-clinic services such as serum therapy and wound dressing, while 1.6 million others were provided with medications.

Additionally, during this period, IRCS personnel managed the transfer of 249 individuals who were either wounded or deceased, highlighting the critical role of the organization in maintaining the wellbeing of pilgrims.

In conclusion, the commitment of the Iranian Red Crescent Society to enhancing the Arbaeen pilgrimage experience reflects a dedication to humanitarian service, cultural respect, and international collaboration. Through these efforts, IRCS continues to play a vital role in ensuring the safety and support of millions during this deeply significant event.