TEHRAN -- Iranian authorities have announced the official theme for the 2025 Arbaeen pilgrimage, selecting the slogan “Inna Ala Al-Ahd” (Arabic for “We are in the covenant”) to show loyalty to the ideals of Imam Hussein (AS).
The announcement was made during the 86th session of the Arbaeen Cultural and Educational Committee on Tuesday. 
Speaking at the session, the committee’s head Hamid Ahmadi explained the significance of the chosen slogan. 
“Each year, a theme is selected that reflects the spirit of Ashura and conveys its message to the present day,” he said. “This message must consider both current regional and international contexts.”
He said the process of choosing the slogan began months ago in consultation with various stakeholders. After expert reviews, the phrase “Inna Ala Al-Ahd”, which had previously been used by the Lebanese people and Hezbollah to honor resistance martyrs, was approved in joint sessions held simultaneously in Tehran and Baghdad last week.
“This phrase is rooted in the Arbaeen pilgrimage and the legacy of the Ashura uprising,” Ahmadi said. “According to Islamic teachings, Arbaeen is a time to reaffirm our commitment to the cause of Imam Hussein (AS). Many martyrs of the resistance movement stayed loyal to this pledge, and by reviving this slogan, we honor their sacrifice and remain steadfast in our own loyalty to the Imam (AS).”
Muhammad-Taqi Baqeri, Secretary of the Central Arbaeen Committee, touched upon the significance of the committee’s cultural and educational role. 
“Over the past three years, all of our efforts have centered around strengthening spirituality and culture along the Arbaeen pilgrimage route,” he said.
Baqeri added that one of the committee’s main goals is to address previous challenges and improve the overall experience for pilgrims. 
“We are working to ensure that Arbaeen is accessible, affordable, safe, and dignified,” he said. 
This includes improvements in public transportation, insurance coverage, and on-the-ground services, all in coordination with government bodies and with public participation.
Further explaining about the insurance services, he said, “Our aim is to provide maximum coverage at minimal cost to pilgrims, so that no additional financial burden is placed on them.”
Arbaeen marks the 40th day after the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. Each year, millions of Shia Muslims from around the world travel to Karbala, Iraq, to commemorate the occasion, making it one of the largest religious gatherings globally.