TEHRAN -- An official in Qom put the number of pilgrims visiting the holy city during the days leading to the Mid-Shaaban Eid at more than four million.
Ismail Husseini Moqaddam, the social, cultural and pilgrimage deputy of the governor of Qom, said the city hosted more than four million pilgrims in four days.
The large turnout occurred despite many provinces facing severe cold and snowfall, he stated.
Referring to the programs held on the auspicious occasion, he said they include an international conference on awaiting the Savior.
There were also magnificent celebrations and cultural and religious programs, according to the official.
He mentioned the establishment of a headquarters for coordinating efforts to serve the pilgrims and said this headquarters, with the formation of 12 committees, including a public committee, aimed to provide the best services to pilgrims.
As part of this committee, 800 public groups were stationed along the seven-kilometer stretch of the Payambar Azam Boulevard, offering various services.
Offering a variety of refreshments and votive foods and beverages, healthcare services, and the presence of over 200 Red Crescent Society staff to provide necessary assistance were among the services offered to the pilgrims, he noted.
Husseini Moqaddam went on to say that 500 clerics were present among the pilgrims, answering their cultural and religious questions.
Additionally, he said, 180 female seminarians and religious experts participated in providing cultural services to the female pilgrims.
The Mid-Shaaban Eid, marking the birth anniversary of Imam Zaman (May God hasten his glad advent), fell on the 15th day of the lunar Hijri month of Shaaban on Friday. 
Shia Muslims all over the world celebrated the auspicious occasion.