1. What does the package price include?

The package covers accommodation, transportation within Iraq, meals, ziyarat tours, and group guidance. Airport transportation is included only if 30 or more passengers are arriving or departing at the same time.

2. What is not included in the package price?

The package does not include individual airport transfers, hotel stays before or after the group itinerary, visa fees (if applicable), personal expenses such as shopping and extra meals, additional hotel nights outside the package dates, or travel insurance, which is optional but recommended.

3. Does WTM provide airline tickets, and how do I book my flight?

WTM only offers a ground package and does not provide airline tickets. You are responsible for booking your own flight.

You may book your flight online through the airline’s website or via online ticket agencies such as Kayak or Skyscanner. You can also reach out to any ticket agent of your choice or contact Brother John Raza at (201) 313-6796. Please confirm your ticket itinerary with me before purchasing to ensure it aligns with our group’s schedule.

4. Are there different pricing options based on accommodation?

There is an additional charge for those requesting double beds, if available, unless they are married couples. Rooms are shared between three, four, or sometimes five individuals.

5. Are there discounts for children or group bookings?

Children under the age of two are free unless they require a separate bed. Children between three and five years old will be charged $350 if sharing a bed with their parents, but if they require a bed, they will pay the full package price. Children six and above will be charged the full package price.

6. What is the payment schedule?

A non-refundable deposit of $250 is required at registration to secure your spot. The remaining balance is due upon arrival in Iraq.

7. What is the refund or cancellation policy?

The $250 deposit is non-refundable.

8. Are there any hidden charges?

No, all costs will be clearly outlined before booking. However, any personal expenses or optional services will be at your own cost.

9. How can I make the payment?

Payments can be made via Zelle or cash. Payment instructions will be shared upon registration.

10. Can I upgrade my package (e.g., better hotel, private transport)?

No, accommodations for Arbaeen are booked well in advance, and due to high demand and limited availability, we are unable to offer hotel upgrades. However, we can arrange private transport for an extra charge.

11. Will the food be Desi or Iraqi?

WTM will have their own chef for the duration of our trip, preparing delicious and familiar Desi dishes. We can’t provide a fixed menu due to the uncertainty of ingredient availability during Arbaeen, but we will do our best to ensure everyone enjoys the best possible Desi food.

12. If I need a wheelchair and a helper to take me to Haram or shopping, will one be provided?

You may request WTM to arrange a wheelchair service for you, but we highly encourage you to bring your own wheelchair from home, as wheelchairs during Arbaeen are in high demand and difficult to obtain from hotels or the Haram. The cost of the wheelchair service will be shared with you upon request.

13. Why is the ground package price higher than in previous years?

The increase in the ground package price is primarily due to significant price hikes by hotels in Iraq, especially in Karbala. Hotels have implemented price fixing and made it mandatory to book a minimum of 10 days during Arbaeen.

Additionally, the pricing structure has always been charged per bed rather than per room, further impacting costs. Since Karbala now requires a 10-day booking, we had to reduce our stay in Kazmain from 2 days to 1 and in Najaf from 3 days to 2.

Hotel prices have increased by at least 40% compared to last year, with the largest portion of the ground package cost going toward accommodation. Despite these challenges, we remain committed to offering the lowest possible ground package price while maintaining optimal service for the Zaireen of Aba Abdillah (AS).

If you have any further questions, feel free to reach out! We’re happy to assist you.