Bahrain Tightens Arbaeen Travel Rules to Iraq
The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, in coordination with the General Directorate of Jaafari Affairs at the Islamic Endowments Affairs Council, has announced new procedures for Bahraini citizens planning to travel to Iraq for the Arbaeen pilgrimage.
The measures have been introduced in light of the current regional situation and security concerns surrounding travel to Iraq.
Under the new arrangements, Arbaeen travel must be organised through licensed travel and tourism offices authorised to arrange pilgrimage trips. Travellers will be permitted to travel only on approved flights departing from Bahrain International Airport, while land travel to Iraq is prohibited.
Licensed travel agencies will be responsible for ensuring that all regulatory and security requirements are followed. They must also submit lists of travellers and the required documents to the relevant authorities well ahead of departure and secure the necessary permits and approvals.
The head of each travel agency will be responsible for all aspects of the organised trip, including compliance with official instructions and security procedures.
The Authority also stated that the arrangements apply only to Bahraini citizens aged 50 and above. Travellers must return to Bahrain before August 15, 2026.
The measures are intended to regulate Arbaeen pilgrimage travel while taking into account the prevailing security conditions and ensuring that approved travel arrangements are followed.
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