A regional war has drastically cut pilgrim and tourist activity in Najaf, a holy city in Iraq known for the shrine of Imam Ali [1].
The shrine’s courtyards, once filled with multilingual pilgrims, are now quiet and largely empty, according to a report published on May 4 [1].
Local shopkeepers and hotel owners say the drop in visitors has hurt their livelihoods. Abdel Rahim Harmoush, a jewellery shop owner, said, "Iranians used to keep us busy, whether the jeweller, the fabric merchant or the taxi driver. Now there are none" [1].
Najaf’s economy has long depended on religious tourism, especially from Iranian pilgrims. The absence of these visitors has left many businesses with little to do and uncertain futures [1].
The Japan Times report from Najaf detailed how ongoing instability in the region has severely impacted the city’s role as a pilgrimage hub [1].
As of May 5, no indication of an immediate return of pilgrims has been reported.