Approximate Border Location
Wait Times
30–120 min
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Operating Hours
Open 12:00 AM–11:59 PM
Crossing Types
Pedestrians, vehicles, freight
Border Type
Land crossing via road
Peak Times
Morning peaks, weekends
Daily Crossings
4,000–6,000 daily
Currency Exchange
Exchange nearby; IRR, IQD
Safety Information
Elevated security presence
Languages Spoken
Persian/Arabic
Accessibility Features
Ramps, elevators
About Mehran & Zurbatiyah
Monthly Update (February 2026):
Crowds swell quickly around prayer times at the Mehran & Zurbatiyah Border Crossing, then thin again. Over the past weeks of February 2026 it’s been variable, with pedestrian flows often slowing vehicle processing. Religious travel and regional events are what most affect timing.
Safety Warning
The Mehran-Zurbatiyah border crossing, also known as Mehran Border or Zurbatiyah Gate, carries risks due to regional instability and scams targeting travelers. Exercise caution, verify information with official sources, and avoid unofficial guides or money changers to ensure a safe passage.
Location and Connection
Connecting Iran’s Ilam Province to Iraq’s Wasit Province, the Mehran-Zurbatiyah border links the Iranian city of Mehran to Iraq’s Zurbatiyah, a key route for trade and pilgrimage to Karbala and Najaf. Situated along Iran’s Route 17 and Iraq’s Highway 7, it serves as a vital corridor for goods and travelers moving between Tehran and Baghdad, bustling with activity year-round. Over 7 million people crossed in the first nine months of 2025, with balanced flows in both directions and significant foreign pilgrim traffic.
Historical and Geopolitical Context
This crossing has long facilitated trade and religious pilgrimage, particularly for Shia Muslims visiting Iraq’s holy sites. Its modern significance grew post-2003, with millions crossing annually during Arbaeen, the world’s largest pilgrimage. The border handles $2 billion in trade yearly, including food and construction materials. Geopolitical tensions, such as Iran-Iraq disputes over water resources in 2022, have occasionally slowed crossings, but its role as a pilgrimage route keeps it active. Security is tight due to regional unrest, requiring travelers to stay updated on conditions.
Crossing Procedures and Wait Times
Open daily with typical hours from early morning to evening (around 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM local time, no significant time difference), the border involves two steps: exit processing at Mehran’s customs office and entry at Zurbatiyah’s immigration post. From Iran to Iraq, you’ll get an exit stamp, cross a 1-kilometer neutral zone by foot or shuttle, and then process an Iraqi visa and entry stamp. The reverse applies for Iraq to Iran. Wait times range from 30 minutes to 2 hours in early mornings but can stretch to 4-6 hours during Arbaeen (September-October), when millions cross. Iraqi visas on arrival are available for many nationalities at $50 USD, requiring exact change and a passport photo; Iran requires pre-arranged visas for most nationalities. Vehicle crossings need a carnet de passage, with customs fees up to $150 USD. Delays often arise from crowds and thorough inspections.
Route Details and Scenery
From Ilam to Mehran, a 90-kilometer drive on Route 17 takes 1.5 hours by bus or taxi, passing rolling hills, olive groves, and small Kurdish villages. The scenery shifts to dusty plains near the border. From Zurbatiyah to Baghdad, a 180-kilometer trip on Highway 7 takes 3 hours, crossing flat desert terrain with occasional date palm farms. Roads are paved but congested during pilgrimage seasons. Summer temperatures reach 40°C; winter brings cooler 15°C weather, though dust storms can reduce visibility.
Travel Tips and Scam Warnings
Secure an Iraqi e-visa online where possible for $50 USD to avoid inflated border fees of $10-30 USD for fake “processing” services. Money changers offer poor rates for Iranian Rials to Iraqi Dinars; exchange in Ilam or Baghdad. Touts may push overpriced taxis or unofficial visa help; use official offices and demand receipts. Taxis from Ilam to Mehran cost $5 USD; buses to Baghdad from Zurbatiyah cost $10 USD. Travelers report fake checkpoint fees; insist on official stamps. Contact Al-Rafidain Agency (+98 843 222 1234) for customs help. Keep valuables secure, as pickpocketing is common in crowded areas, especially during Arbaeen.
Cultural and Economic Significance
The border supports trade in food and textiles, fueling markets in Ilam and Baghdad. Its pilgrimage role draws millions, creating a vibrant atmosphere of Persian and Arab traditions, seen in shared tea houses and bilingual signage. The crossing’s economic impact supports local vendors selling religious souvenirs and food.
Nearby Attractions
Ilam, 90 kilometers from Mehran, offers scenic valleys and the Qajar-era Vali Castle. Baghdad, 3 hours from Zurbatiyah, boasts the Al-Kadhimiya Mosque and vibrant souks. Near Zurbatiyah, roadside stalls sell dates and prayer beads, reflecting Iraq’s religious culture.
Seasonal Variations and Weather Impacts
November to March offers mild 15-20°C weather, ideal for crossing. Summer (June-August) brings intense heat, slowing queues. Arbaeen crowds cause major delays; winter rains can muddy roads. Security closures, like in 2022, may disrupt plans, so check advisories before traveling.
Planning Recommendations
Plan for a full day to cross, especially during Arbaeen. Start early, carry USD for visas, and organize documents. Book transport to the border but arrange onward travel after customs to avoid scams. Stay vigilant for touts and monitor security updates. With preparation, you’ll manage this busy crossing and explore Iran and Iraq’s cultural riches.
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