From Ras al-Bisha, the Story Begins...
The March of Hussaini Love From the Southernmost Point of Iraq
From the farthest edge of southern Iraq, in a place called Ras al-Bisha, throngs of pilgrims set out toward the Qibla of the free — holy Karbala — carrying the banners of Hussaini love.
With the immortal words of Imam al-Husayn (peace be upon him):
“Indeed, I do not know of companions more loyal or better than my companions,”
the Arbaeen pilgrims begin their journey — each step echoing a profound loyalty to the Master of Martyrs.
As they walk, the pilgrims share encouragement and prayers. They carry each other’s fatigue, embodying the values of Karbala — principles rooted in sacrifice, devotion, and unwavering belief. The path of Arbaeen writes thousands of stories: stories of faith, resilience, and love for a cause that transcends time.
The Arbaeen pilgrimage is an annual event that commemorates forty days since the martyrdom of the grandson of the Prophet, Imam al-Husayn ibn Ali (peace be upon him), along with his family and companions, and the captivity of his women and children.
Each year, on the 20th of Safar, massive walking processions head toward Karbala. From Ras al-Bisha, Iraq’s southernmost point, pilgrims begin their long journey on foot, determined to take part in the commemoration of Arbaeen.
Under the scorching sun and extreme heat, the lovers of Husayn set out toward holy Karbala, undeterred by the difficulty. Ras al-Bisha, located in the Al-Faw district at Iraq’s southern tip, is considered the primary launching point for those who wish to start their Arbaeen journey from the farthest border.
This happens as Hussaini mawakeb (service tents) mobilize all their efforts to serve the pilgrims, especially amid official expectations of millions entering Iraq from abroad this year.
The road stretches from Ras al-Bisha for more than 600 kilometers, with temperatures often exceeding 50°C (122°F). Yet still, the pilgrims insist on walking every step — from the farthest border point in southern Iraq, all the way to the sacred shrine of Imam al-Husayn (peace be upon him) — to take part in the monumental commemoration of Arbaeen.