This project is regarded as one of the most significant constructional and service achievements in the history of the holy shrines, as this sacred courtyard is expected to have a profound impact on religious life, architectural development, and visitor services.
The inauguration ceremony was held in the presence of the Custodian of the Imam Ali Holy Shrine, Sayed Isa Al-Khirsan, along with a number of the project’s founders and a group of distinguished scholars from the Najaf seminary. A joint statement was delivered outlining the spiritual significance and the mission embodied in this major achievement.
In a statement to the Shrine’s News Center, Wissam Iskandar, Head of the al-Nathm Center of the Strategic Planning and Development Unit, said:
“During this ceremony, the full opening of the Courtyard of Fatimah al-Zahra (peace be upon her) and its complete readiness to receive visitors on a daily basis were officially announced, with all service facilities operational across all entrances and levels. The project was implemented in accordance with the highest engineering and architectural standards.”
International and Official Participation
Wissam Iskandar added:
“The ceremony was attended by delegations from the Islamic Republic of Iran, Afghanistan, and other countries, particularly specialists in engineering and architecture. Representatives of holy shrines and sacred sites from within and outside Iraq were also present, alongside governmental officials, academics, and experts in the field of construction and urban development.”
The event included a series of speeches and the screening of a documentary film that traced the stages of the project from the commencement of construction in 2005-2006 to the official announcement of its completion in 2025. Detailed statistics were also presented regarding the courtyard’s facilities, total area, visitor capacity, and its significant role in expanding the Imam Ali Holy Shrine and enhancing services for pilgrims.
The Symbolic Moment of the Inauguration
Iskandar further stated:
“In a symbolic and deeply moving moment, the curtain was lifted from the main commemorative plaque of the project, crafted from Karbala stone and installed at the entrance of the Courtyard of Fatimah al-Zahra (peace be upon her), formally announcing the completion and inauguration of this blessed courtyard.”
A Qualitative Enhancement in Pilgrim Services
Covering an area exceeding 60,000 square meters, the Courtyard of Fatimah al-Zahra (peace be upon her) represents a strategic and substantial addition to the infrastructure of the Imam Ali Holy Shrine. By providing expansive spaces and integrated services, it plays a vital role in accommodating the growing number of visitors and facilitating their movement and comfort, particularly during million-visitor pilgrimages.
