FAQ

1) What language do service workers speak?

Its difficult to give an estimate number, but many do speak or at least understand English or Arabic. In tourist areas like hotels, stores around the Holy Shrine, pharmacies, medical establishments, and within the Holy Shrine, you will see that many can speak one of these languages fluently.

2) Can I pay by credit card?

Currently credit cards are accepted only in Imam Khomeini International Airport.

3) Can I pay in foreign currency?

It is illegal to pay in currencies other than the official Iranian Rial/toman.

4) What is considered low and peak season?

During religious holidays, which follow the lunar calendar, such as Muharram and the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Reza (PBUH), the Persian New Year (March 21 to about April 6), and summer are the peaks seasons. Low seasons are in the fall and winter.

5) Is the water safe to drink?

Sanitation in Mashhad is advanced and the water is totally safe to drink.

6) Do I need any vaccinations before my trip?

No vaccinations are required to travel to Mashhad. However, to be on the safe side always check with your country's health centers.

7) What should I wear?

In Iran the hijab or religious dress code is strictly enforced. Women must cover their bodes with loose and long fitted clothing in addition to covering their hair. Men are expected to wear pants and sleeved tops.

8) Can non-Muslims visit the Holy Shrine?

Only the mosques and the room that holds the holy burial chamber are strictly off limit to non-Muslims.

9) What is the electrical voltage and what is the shape of the plugs?

Electricity in Iran is 220V and they use Europlugs. If you come from a country that uses110V electricity, you will have to bring a converter plus adapter for your plugs.

10) How can I extend my visa?

Visa extensions are available at the Police Offices of Foreign Aliens in major Iranian cities. In Mashhad you can extend your visa ….

11) How can I rent a wheelchair?

The Holy Shrine offers a Wheelchair Delivery System located at all entrances of the Haram. To use this service an identity card is required for deposit.

12) Do I have to pay a tourist tax?

No, Iran does not charge a tourist tax on purchases when you leave the country.

13) What if I need to see a doctor?

Most medical clinics around the Holy Shrine and major hospitals have staff that can speak English and/or Arabic. Medical clinics are easy to access and some are opened 24/7 and have a variety of medical doctors plus pharamcies.

14) How can I get a taxi?

You can call taxi services by dialing: 133, 1829, or 1830. Otherwise you can hail a yellow taxi on all major street corners.

15) How safe is Mashhad?

Mashhad is relatively safe compared to other metropolises of the world. However, as in any other places in the world, commonsense precautions should always be taken. Some common sense safety tips are: always notify someone of your plans when going out; never leave your valuables unattended anywhere and at anytime; do not take rides or accept invitations of strangers no matter how kind they appear; do not travel alone late at night, especially out of the city; and do not flash around a lot of money. However, take note that parks are never closed and it is very common for groups of women or families to picnic in the parks throughout the night; enjoying hot tea, fruits, nuts and seeds, and hot homemade meals. The areas around the Holy Shrine are usually alive at all hours of the day and night. In fact, this area never sleeps and the Holy Shrine welcomes its devout pilgrims 24/7. As far as water safety, the local tap water is 100% drinkable and safe to shower in, brush your teeth with, wash your dishes with, and so on. However, outside of the city limits, it is questionable because the area many not be hooked up to the city water and instead may use tanker water.