Finnish Ambassador Shares Experience Wearing Hijab at Imam Hussein Shrine
According to Iraq’s Noon News Agency, Saarela toured the sacred site and was briefed on various projects managed by the shrine’s administration. She praised the range of services provided to pilgrims during her visit.
Speaking about her impressions, Saarela described the experience as highly positive. "The visit was truly good, and the shrine of Imam Hussein is a very impressive place," she said.
Reflecting on the cultural aspects of her visit, Saarela noted her experience with traditional attire. "My colleague helped me with this," she said regarding wearing the hijab and abaya. "I had visited Najaf before, so I was already familiar with wearing the abaya."
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Saarela has served as Finland’s ambassador to Iraq since 2023.
The shrine of Imam Hussein (AS), one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Shi'a Muslims, attracts millions of visitors annually, particularly during major religious commemorations such as Arbaeen.
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