Five facts about the world’s largest annual gathering

Every year, millions of people from around the world travel to Karbala, Iraq, to commemorate Arbaeen and honour the sacrifice of Imam Hussain (as). What began as a journey of remembrance has grown into one of the most significant gatherings on earth, bringing together people through faith, service, unity, and a shared commitment to justice.

Arbaeen takes place 40 days after the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (as) at Karbala in 680 CE (61 AH). For followers of the Ahlulbayt (as), it is a deeply meaningful occasion that reflects loyalty to Imam Hussain (as), his companions, and the principles they defended.

The events of Karbala continue to remind believers of the importance of standing against oppression, protecting truth, and remaining committed to justice, even in the face of hardship.

The Holy Quran highlights the importance of respecting and honouring the sacred signs of Allah (swt):

“And whosoever venerates the (sacred) symbols of Allah (swt), (that is a good deed, and) that indeed is (the result of) the piety of hearts.” (22:32)

For millions of pilgrims, Arbaeen represents one of the greatest expressions of devotion to Imam Hussain (as). The journey is not only about reaching Karbala, but about carrying forward the values that Imam Hussain (as) sacrificed his life to preserve.

Here are five facts that help explain the global significance of Arbaeen.

1. Arbaeen is the largest annual peaceful gathering in the world

One of the most remarkable aspects of Arbaeen is its incredible size. Each year, millions of pilgrims gather in Iraq to honour Imam Hussain (as), with attendance figures in some years exceeding 20 million people.

This makes Arbaeen widely recognized as the world’s largest annual peaceful religious gathering. Despite its immense scale, the event remains focused on remembrance, worship, and service.

People from across the globe come together with a shared purpose: to commemorate the sacrifice of Imam Hussain (as) and reconnect with the values he represented. The gathering is not defined by celebration or spectacle, but by reflection, spirituality, and collective devotion.

Every step towards Karbala carries meaning. For pilgrims, the journey represents a commitment to follow the path of Imam Hussain (as) and uphold principles of justice, compassion, and courage.

2. The Arbaeen Walk from Najaf to Karbala covers approximately 80 kilometres

While pilgrims arrive in Karbala through many different routes, the walk from Najaf to Karbala is the most well-known part of the Arbaeen pilgrimage. Covering approximately 80 kilometres, it has become a powerful symbol of devotion and sacrifice.

The route is marked by 1,452 numbered poles, which help pilgrims track their progress throughout the journey. Each pole is placed approximately 50 metres apart, creating a clear guide along one of the largest walking pilgrimages in the world.

For those taking part, the physical challenge of the walk carries deep spiritual significance. The effort, patience, and endurance required reflect the hardships faced by the family of Imam Hussain (as) after Karbala.

The journey itself becomes an act of worship. Each kilometre walked represents love for Imam Hussain (as), remembrance of his sacrifice, and dedication to the message that continues to inspire millions today.

3. Mowkebs showcase the spirit of service during Arbaeen

One of the defining features of Arbaeen is the culture of generosity and hospitality that surrounds the pilgrimage. Along the routes leading to Karbala, thousands of volunteer-run mowkebs provide support to pilgrims throughout their journey.

These stations offer essential services including food, water, accommodation, rest areas, medical assistance, and other necessities. Many are established by families, communities, and organizations who dedicate their time and resources to serving those visiting Imam Hussain (as).

The tradition of the mowkeb reflects one of the central messages of Arbaeen: serving others is an expression of faith. Volunteers do not view their efforts as a burden, but as an honour and opportunity to contribute to the journey of devotion.

Through these acts of kindness, Arbaeen becomes more than a pilgrimage. It becomes a powerful example of how communities can come together through compassion, generosity, and selflessness.

4. Arbaeen holds a special place in the teachings of the Ahlulbayt (as)

The significance of Arbaeen is not only connected to the millions who gather today. Its importance is rooted in the teachings of the Ahlulbayt (as), who emphasized the value of remembering Imam Hussain (as) and visiting his resting place.

Imam Hassan al-Askari (as) is reported to have said: “The signs of a believer are five: performing 51 units of prayer (17 wajib and 34 nawafil); pilgrimage of Imam Hussain (as) on Arbaeen; wearing a ring on the right hand; placing the forehead on earth (during sujood); and saying “Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim” aloud during the prayer.” (Tahdhib al-Ahkam, v.6, p.52)

This narration highlights the unique importance of Ziyarat Arbaeen and its connection to faith. For believers, travelling to Karbala is an opportunity to renew their connection with Imam Hussain (as), reflect on his sacrifice, and strengthen their commitment to the values he represented.

Almost 1,400 years after Karbala, the message of Imam Hussain (as) continues to inspire people around the world to stand for truth, justice, and dignity.

5. Arbaeen connects people across nations and communities

Although Arbaeen holds particular importance for followers of the Ahlulbayt (as), its message has reached people far beyond one community. Each year, pilgrims from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds travel to Karbala, united by their respect for Imam Hussain (as) and the values he represented.

The gathering reflects the universal nature of Imam Hussain’s (as) stand at Karbala. His sacrifice was rooted in principles that continue to resonate across generations: justice, compassion, dignity, and the refusal to accept oppression.

For many participants, Arbaeen is an opportunity to come together with people from around the world and experience a shared sense of purpose. Despite differences in language, nationality, or culture, millions walk the same path towards Karbala with a common goal.

This global participation has helped Arbaeen become a symbol of unity and solidarity. It shows how the message of Imam Hussain (as) continues to inspire people seeking truth and justice almost fourteen centuries after the events of Karbala.

The worldwide impact of Arbaeen: A tradition of faith and service

Arbaeen is more than an annual pilgrimage. It is a global expression of remembrance, devotion, and collective service that brings millions together every year.

The journey demonstrates the lasting influence of Imam Hussain’s (as) sacrifice and the continued relevance of the principles he defended. Through walking to Karbala, serving pilgrims, and participating in remembrance, people around the world keep alive the message of courage, sacrifice, and standing against injustice.

The culture of hospitality surrounding Arbaeen has also gained international recognition. In 2019, UNESCO recognized the traditions of hospitality and services associated with Arbaeen as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This acknowledgement reflects the importance of the volunteer efforts, generosity, and community support that have become central to the pilgrimage.

From the millions walking towards Karbala to the volunteers preparing meals and offering assistance along the route, every contribution reflects the spirit of service inspired by Imam Hussain (as).

Carrying forward the legacy of Imam Hussain (as)

The message of Karbala remains alive because it speaks to timeless human values. Imam Hussain (as) stood for truth, justice, and dignity, teaching generations that principles should never be abandoned, even during the most difficult circumstances.

Arbaeen provides millions with an opportunity to reconnect with this message through remembrance, worship, and service. While many believers are blessed to make the journey themselves, others participate by supporting those who travel and those who dedicate themselves to serving pilgrims.

By helping provide support for the people and communities involved in Arbaeen, we can all contribute to preserving this remarkable tradition.

Millions journey towards Imam Hussain (as). Let your giving walk beside them by supporting the people and communities serving this extraordinary movement.

Frequently asked questions

What is Arbaeen?

Arbaeen is the 40th day after the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (as) at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE (61 AH). It is one of the most important commemorations for followers of the Ahlulbayt (as), with millions travelling to Karbala each year to perform Ziyarat Arbaeen and honour Imam Hussain’s (as) sacrifice.

Why is Arbaeen considered the world’s largest annual gathering?

Arbaeen is considered the world’s largest annual peaceful gathering because millions of people travel to Karbala every year to remember Imam Hussain (as). In some years, reported attendance has exceeded 20 million pilgrims, making it one of the largest gatherings in human history.

How long is the Arbaeen Walk?

The most famous Arbaeen route is the walk from Najaf to Karbala, which covers approximately 80 kilometres. The route includes 1,452 numbered poles placed along the way to help pilgrims measure their distance and follow their progress.

What are mowkebs during Arbaeen?

Mowkebs are volunteer-run hospitality stations that support pilgrims throughout the Arbaeen journey. They provide free food, water, accommodation, medical assistance, rest areas, and other essential services for those travelling towards Karbala.

Do only Shia Muslims participate in Arbaeen?

While Arbaeen has special significance for Shia Muslims, people from different communities, nationalities, and backgrounds participate in the gathering. Many are inspired by the universal values connected to Imam Hussain’s (as) sacrifice, including justice, compassion, and standing against oppression.

Why is Arbaeen important today?

Arbaeen remains important because it keeps alive the message of Imam Hussain (as) and the lessons of Karbala. The gathering reminds people of the importance of faith, service, sacrifice, and defending truth in every generation.