Mashhad Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Mashhad.
Healthcare System
Mashhad has a well-developed healthcare system with numerous hospitals and clinics serving the millions of pilgrims who visit annually. The city hosts several major teaching hospitals affiliated with Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, offering both public and private healthcare options.
Hospitals
Major hospitals include Imam Reza Hospital (near the shrine, experienced with international patients), Hasheminejad Hospital, Qaem Hospital, and several private facilities like Samen Hospital and Mehr Hospital. Private hospitals are recommended for foreign travelers due to better amenities and English-speaking staff. The shrine complex also has medical facilities for pilgrims.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (داروخانه - Darukhane) are widely available throughout Mashhad and well-stocked with medications. Many common medications are available over-the-counter without prescription. However, bring sufficient supplies of prescription medications as specific brands may not be available. Some Western medications may be sold under different names.
Insurance
Travel health insurance is not legally required but strongly recommended. Ensure your policy covers Iran specifically, as some international insurers exclude Iran. Medical costs are relatively low compared to Western countries, but evacuation coverage is important given international sanctions affecting payment systems.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring copies of prescriptions with generic drug names, as brand names differ in Iran
- Cash payment is typically required as international credit cards don't work in Iran due to sanctions
- Private hospitals require upfront payment or deposit before treatment
- Consider bringing a comprehensive first-aid kit and common medications from home
- Tap water in Mashhad is generally safe but bottled water is recommended for sensitive stomachs
- Air pollution can be significant; those with respiratory conditions should bring necessary medications
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur in crowded areas, particularly during peak pilgrimage seasons when the city is extremely crowded. The risk increases significantly during religious holidays and festivals.
Traffic in Mashhad can be chaotic with aggressive driving, poor lane discipline, and limited pedestrian right-of-way. Motorcycles often use sidewalks and drive against traffic. Road accidents are a significant risk.
Travelers may inadvertently violate Iranian laws regarding dress codes, photography, alcohol, interactions between unmarried men and women, or criticism of the government/religion. Penalties can be severe including detention.
Mashhad experiences significant air pollution, particularly during winter months and during temperature inversions. This can affect those with respiratory conditions, children, and elderly travelers.
Summer temperatures in Mashhad can exceed 35-40°C (95-104°F) with low humidity. Heat exhaustion and dehydration are risks, especially for pilgrims walking long distances around the shrine.
Mashhad is located in a seismically active region. While major earthquakes are infrequent, the risk exists and building codes vary in enforcement.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Friendly locals or taxi drivers offer to take tourists to 'family' or 'special' carpet/saffron shops where prices are inflated 3-10 times normal rates. The guide receives commission. Quality may be misrepresented (machine-made sold as handmade, low-grade saffron as premium).
Individuals approach tourists near the shrine or hotels offering guide services at seemingly good rates, but provide poor service, take tourists to commission-based shops, or demand higher payment afterward claiming misunderstanding.
Taxi drivers may refuse to use meters or claim they're broken, quote inflated prices to tourists, or take unnecessarily long routes. Some may claim to have no change to keep larger bills.
Unofficial money changers may use sleight of hand to short-change tourists, offer rates that seem too good to be true but deliver less, or swap genuine notes for counterfeits during counting.
Individuals approach tourists claiming to collect for shrine-related charities or religious causes, but pocket the donations. Some use official-looking but fake credentials.
Online bookings show nice rooms but upon arrival, guests are given inferior rooms with excuses about overbooking or 'renovations,' then offered upgrades for additional fees.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Cultural and Legal Compliance
- Women must wear hijab (headscarf) covering hair and loose clothing covering arms and legs at all times in public
- Men should wear long pants and avoid shorts; short-sleeved shirts are acceptable
- Avoid public displays of affection, even between married couples
- Never criticize the government, religion, or political system publicly or on social media
- Photography of military installations, government buildings, and some infrastructure is illegal
- Ask permission before photographing people, especially women
- Alcohol is completely illegal; do not attempt to bring, buy, or consume it
- Respect prayer times and religious observances; business may pause for prayers
- Remove shoes when entering mosques and some traditional establishments
- During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours
Shrine Etiquette and Safety
- Dress even more conservatively when visiting the Haram (women: full chador recommended, available for free at entrances)
- Non-Muslims are generally welcome but should be respectful; some areas may be restricted
- Keep valuables secure in crowded shrine areas during peak times
- Follow segregated entrances for men and women
- Be prepared for security checks; prohibited items include cameras in some areas
- Stay aware of your surroundings in crowds, especially during religious holidays
- Follow the flow of pilgrims and don't block pathways
- Photography restrictions apply in certain areas; look for signs or ask permission
Money and Valuables
- Bring sufficient cash (USD or EUR) as international credit/debit cards don't work due to sanctions
- Exchange money at official sarafi (exchange offices) for best rates
- Understand the difference between Iranian Rial (IRR) and Toman (1 Toman = 10 Rials)
- Keep large amounts of cash secured in hotel safes
- Carry small denominations for daily purchases
- Use money belts or hidden pouches for passport and excess cash
- Make copies of important documents and store separately from originals
- Consider using Iranian payment apps if staying longer (requires local setup)
Transportation Safety
- Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps (Snapp, Tap30) rather than street taxis
- Always wear seatbelts in vehicles
- Avoid driving unless experienced with Iranian traffic; consider hiring drivers instead
- Be extremely cautious crossing streets; drivers rarely yield to pedestrians
- Use pedestrian bridges and underpasses where available
- Keep taxi/ride-share details and share with someone when traveling alone
- Avoid intercity travel at night due to increased accident risk
- Metro system is safe, affordable, and has women-only cars during peak hours
Communication
- Learn basic Farsi phrases; English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas
- Download offline translation apps before arrival
- Have your hotel address written in Farsi for taxi drivers
- Save important numbers in your phone with local emergency contacts
- International roaming may not work; purchase local SIM card upon arrival
- VPN may be necessary for accessing some websites and apps
- Keep your embassy/consulate contact information readily available
- Consider hiring a local guide for complex navigation or important transactions
Health Precautions
- Bring comprehensive travel health insurance that covers Iran
- Carry sufficient prescription medications with copies of prescriptions
- Drink bottled water or use water purification methods
- Be cautious with street food; choose busy vendors with good turnover
- Bring hand sanitizer and use frequently, especially before eating
- Protect against sun exposure with sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses
- Be aware of air quality and limit exposure on high-pollution days
- Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date; consider hepatitis A/B and typhoid
- Bring a basic first-aid kit with common medications
- Know location of nearest hospital to your accommodation
Accommodation Security
- Choose hotels with good reviews and security measures
- Use hotel safes for passports, excess cash, and valuables
- Keep room locked and use chain/deadbolt when inside
- Don't open door to unexpected visitors; verify identity through hotel reception
- Know emergency exits and evacuation routes
- Keep emergency contact numbers and important documents accessible
- Be discreet about room number in public areas
- Report any suspicious activity to hotel management immediately
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Women travelers can visit Mashhad safely, though they must strictly observe Islamic dress codes and cultural norms. The city hosts millions of female pilgrims annually, so solo women travelers are not unusual. However, cultural expectations differ significantly from Western norms, and understanding these is essential for a comfortable experience. Unwanted attention can occur but is generally limited to staring or questions. Physical harassment is rare but cultural misunderstandings can happen.
- Wear hijab (headscarf) at all times in public, covering all hair; bring several scarves as they shift frequently
- Wear loose-fitting clothing covering arms to wrists and legs to ankles; manteau (long tunic) over pants is standard
- Bring or purchase a chador for shrine visits (available free at entrances, but having your own is more comfortable)
- Avoid tight or form-fitting clothing, bright colors, or attention-drawing patterns
- Use women-only metro cars during peak hours for more comfort
- Book accommodations with good reviews from female travelers
- Be prepared for gender segregation in some public spaces, queues, and facilities
- Avoid direct eye contact with men as it may be misinterpreted
- Don't shake hands with men unless they extend their hand first (many won't for religious reasons)
- If harassed verbally, ignore and walk away; seek help from tourist police (1480) if needed
- Consider joining women-only tours for shrine visits and cultural sites
- Restaurants and cafes are generally mixed but some have family sections (more private)
- Carry a wedding ring or mention a husband even if single to deflect unwanted attention
- Take photos of your outfit in the mirror to ensure proper coverage before going out
- Be aware that unmarried men and women socializing can attract attention or questions
- Trust your instincts; if uncomfortable, seek help from other women, shopkeepers, or authorities
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexuality is illegal in Iran and can carry severe penalties including imprisonment or death penalty in extreme cases. Same-sex relationships, acts, and advocacy are criminalized under Iranian law. There is no legal recognition or protection for LGBTQ+ individuals.
- Do not disclose sexual orientation or gender identity to anyone, including hotel staff, guides, or new acquaintances
- Avoid any public displays of affection with same-sex partners
- Do not access LGBTQ+ content online without VPN; internet activity may be monitored
- Remove any LGBTQ+ symbols, flags, or identifying items from luggage and clothing
- Be extremely discreet in all communications, including social media and messaging apps
- Do not attempt to visit LGBTQ+ venues or seek out LGBTQ+ communities
- Understand that even private behavior could result in serious legal consequences if discovered
- Consider whether travel to Iran is necessary given the significant risks
- Have emergency plans and embassy contacts readily available
- Be aware that some countries' embassies may have limited ability to assist in cases involving LGBTQ+ issues
- Thoroughly research and understand Iranian laws before traveling
- Consider traveling as part of organized tour groups for added security
- Do not bring any literature, materials, or items that could be considered LGBTQ+ advocacy
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is critical for visiting Mashhad and Iran due to several unique challenges: international credit cards don't work due to sanctions (requiring cash payment for medical care), political tensions can affect travel plans, medical evacuation may be necessary for serious conditions, and standard international assistance networks may have limited operations in Iran. Additionally, the inability to use cards means large cash amounts are needed for emergencies.
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