The Government of Pakistan has announced a new ferry service and a substantial increase in flights to Iran and Iraq to facilitate pilgrims during the upcoming Arbaeen pilgrimage.

The decision was made during a meeting of the Special Task Force on Pilgrims’ Issues, chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi. Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, and senior officials from multiple departments also attended the session.

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According to Civil Aviation officials, flights to Iran have been increased from six to fifteen per week, while 107 special flights have been scheduled for Iraq during Arbaeen. To further ease travel, a ferry service is being launched. Post-Ashura, the government will reassess the security situation before allowing overland travel.

Additionally, it was decided that beginning January 1, 2026, all pilgrims must travel under the Group Organizers System, replacing the current “Salar” model. Over 1,400 applications have already been received for registration under the new system.

The Interior Minister also instructed the FIA and relevant agencies to prevent unauthorized or illegal travel to Iraq under the pretense of pilgrimage.