Approximate Border Location
Border Countries
🇮🇷 Iran
🇦🇫 Afghanistan
Border Cities
🇮🇷 Dogharoun
🇦🇫 Islam Qala
Coordinates
34.70°N, 61.10°E
Border Type
Land crossing via road
Operating Hours
Open 24 hours
Wait Times
30-120 min for pedestrians/vehicles
Peak Times
Mornings (7-10 AM), weekends
Crossing Types
Pedestrians, vehicles, commercial
Daily Crossings
~4000 travelers/vehicles
Languages Spoken
Persian/Dari
Currency Exchange
Available near Dogharoun (IRR, AFN)
Accessibility Features
Ramps, elevators
Safety Information
Busy, security concerns
Google Maps Location
Country Information
About Dogharoun & Islam Qala
Safety Warning
The Dogharoun-Islam Qala border crossing, also known as Taybad-Islam Qala or Herat-Mashhad crossing, carries risks due to security concerns and potential scams. Be cautious, check official sources for updates, and avoid unofficial guides or money changers to ensure a safe crossing.
Location and Connection
Linking Iran’s Khorasan Razavi Province with Afghanistan’s Herat Province, the Dogharoun-Islam Qala border serves as a vital trade and travel route between Mashhad and Herat. This busy crossing handles a steady flow of trucks, shared taxis, and travelers, connecting Central Asia to Iran’s economic hubs. Its strategic position makes it a focal point for commerce and cultural exchange.
Before Crossing
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Historical and Geopolitical Context
Established during the Durrani Empire in the 19th century, Islam Qala has long been a key point for traders and armies moving between Persia and Central Asia. Today, it processes $3 billion in annual trade, with 1,200 trucks crossing daily, carrying goods like fuel and electronics. The border’s importance grew after Afghanistan’s 2021 political shift, though tensions, such as a 2022 road construction dispute, have led to skirmishes and temporary closures. These events reflect the crossing’s delicate geopolitical balance, requiring travelers to stay informed about current conditions.
Crossing Procedures and Wait Times
Open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, the border operates on GMT +4:30 with no time difference between Iran and Afghanistan. Crossing involves two steps: exit processing at one country’s immigration office and entry at the other. From Iran to Afghanistan, you’ll visit the Dogharoun customs office for an exit stamp, then walk or drive to Islam Qala for Afghan entry. The reverse applies for Afghanistan to Iran. Wait times range from 30 minutes to 2 hours in the early morning, but peak hours after noon can extend delays to 3-4 hours, especially for vehicles. Afghan visas on arrival cost $50 USD, requiring exact change and a passport photo. Iran’s visa requirements vary by nationality; many need a pre-arranged visa or e-visa. Customs inspections are thorough, particularly for electronics or fuel, and clearance for trucks averages 3-4 days, with fees of $150-200 USD per truck.
Route Details and Scenery
From Mashhad, Iran, the 120-kilometer drive to Dogharoun takes about 2 hours via shared taxi or bus along Road 36, passing arid plains and small villages. The journey offers views of Iran’s semi-arid landscape, dotted with date palms and distant mountains. From Islam Qala to Herat, a 2-hour, 120-kilometer trip on the Islam Qala-Herat Highway features flat steppe terrain and occasional roadside tea stalls. Roads are paved but can be congested with trucks. During July, temperatures hit 29.5°C, while winter brings cooler weather and occasional dust storms, impacting visibility.
Travel Tips and Scam Warnings
Secure an Afghan e-visa online for $50 USD to avoid inflated border fees, often $10-20 USD for fake “processing” services. Money changers at Islam Qala offer poor rates for Afghanis to Rials; use ATMs in Mashhad or Herat instead. Touts may push overpriced shared taxis or unofficial customs help; politely decline and head to official offices. Shared taxis from Herat to Mashhad cost around $15 USD per seat, while buses are slightly cheaper but slower. Travelers have reported issues with unregistered entries; ensure your passport is stamped and entry logged. For vehicle crossings, prepare a carnet de passage and expect multiple inspections. Contact Etifaq Bamyan Intl (+93 79 909 5656) for customs assistance. Keep valuables hidden to avoid pickpocketing in crowded areas.
Cultural and Economic Significance
The crossing fuels regional trade, with Iran supplying Afghanistan’s 30 million-strong market. Goods like textiles and medical supplies flow through, supporting Herat’s bazaars and Mashhad’s industries. The border’s refugee repatriation center processes thousands daily, reflecting its role in migration. Cultural influences blend Persian and Afghan traditions, seen in shared tea houses and bilingual signage.
Nearby Attractions
Herat, 120 kilometers from Islam Qala, boasts the Friday Mosque and historic citadel, offering a glimpse into Afghanistan’s rich heritage. Mashhad, 2 hours from Dogharoun, is home to the Imam Reza Shrine, a major pilgrimage site. Taybad, near the border, has local markets with affordable handicrafts and Persian sweets.
Seasonal Variations and Weather Impacts
The dry season (October-March) offers mild weather around 17°C, ideal for crossing with fewer delays. July to September brings heat and dust storms, while winter rains can muddy roads, slowing transport. Security-related closures, like those in 2021 and 2022, may disrupt plans, so check news updates before traveling.
Planning Recommendations
Allow a full day for the crossing, starting early to avoid crowds. Carry USD for visas and keep documents organized for inspections. Book transport to the border but arrange onward travel after clearing customs to avoid scams. Monitor security updates due to the border’s volatility. With preparation, you’ll manage this busy crossing and enjoy the cultural riches of Herat or Mashhad.