Mashhad Airport serves Iran's second-largest city by population, an important pilgrimage destination for Shiite Muslims due to the Imam Reza shrine, approximately 8 km from the city center.
It is among the country's busiest airports, with strong traffic linked to religious pilgrimage.
How to get to Mashhad International Airport
By Car
By Train
By Bus
Average travel time to MHD
Parking near Mashhad International Airport
The parking lot operated directly by the airport is located in front of the terminal.
Rates are not reliably posted online; confirm the amount at the counter.
How to get to Mashhad from MHD
By Train
By Bus
By Taxi
Need an airport transfer?
Compare taxis and shuttles on Booking.com
Car rental at Mashhad International Airport
Some local car rental operators have desks in the arrivals area, typically with driver included.
Bring your license, passport, and cash for the deposit, as foreign credit cards do not work.
Hotels near Mashhad International Airport
Numerous hotels, many catering to pilgrims, can be found in central Mashhad, near the shrine.
Hotels in the city center (15-20 minutes, approximately 40-120 USD/night, with higher rates during peak pilgrimage seasons) are generally well-secured; remember that women must wear hijab in all public spaces.
Airport services
Shopping & Duty Free
Lounges & relaxation
Connectivity & Wi-Fi
Families & Children
Terminal guide
The terminal is adequately sized to handle heavy religious traffic, with a significant increase during pilgrimage seasons.
For flights, it is advisable to arrive at least 2-3 hours in advance, longer during peak seasons.
Map of Mashhad International Airport
Frequently asked questions
Q. Why is Mashhad a pilgrimage destination?
It is home to the shrine of Imam Reza, one of the holiest sites in Shia Islam, which draws millions of pilgrims every year from across the Islamic world.
Q. Is it worth avoiding pilgrimage periods if you're not a pilgrim?
Not necessarily, but expect an airport and city much busier than usual, with higher hotel prices during peak religious periods.
Q. Is Mashhad known for any local product?
Yes, the Khorasan province of which Mashhad is the capital is the heart of Iranian saffron production, the country producing the largest share in the world: high-quality saffron can be found in the city's bazaars at prices well below export rates.
Q. Do foreign credit cards work in Mashhad?
No, as in the rest of Iran: bring all the cash you'll need in USD or EUR.
Flight board
Real-time status of arriving and departing flights
