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Mazār-e Sharīf, Afghanistan's fourth-largest city, occupies a strategic position in the fertile Balkh Province of northern Afghanistan, situated on the vast plains of the Amu Darya basin at an elevation of approximately 380 meters above sea level. The city's geography profoundly influences its air quality, as it lies in a semi-arid region characterized by flat to gently rolling terrain, with the Hindu Kush mountains to the southeast and the Karakum Desert to the north, creating a natural basin that can trap pollutants. Mazār-e Sharīf is an urban oasis amidst agricultural zones, surrounded by extensive irrigated farmland that produces cotton, wheat, and fruits, contributing to seasonal dust and agricultural burning emissions. The city lacks major water bodies nearby, with the Amu Darya River flowing about 50 kilometers to the north, limiting natural cleansing effects from moisture. Its location along historic trade routes has fostered urban growth, leading to a mix of traditional bazaars and modern developments, with pollution sources including vehicle emissions from aging fleets, residential heating with solid fuels, and occasional industrial activities. The urban–rural gradient sees higher pollution in the dense city center, tapering toward outskirts where agricultural dust dominates. This geographic setting, combined with Afghanistan's challenging infrastructure, makes Mazār-e Sharīf vulnerable to particulate matter accumulation, especially during calm weather conditions.

In Mazār-e Sharīf, air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern shaped by Afghanistan's continental climate. During winter (December to February), pollution peaks due to temperature inversions that trap cold air near the ground, preventing pollutant dispersion; residents rely on burning wood, coal, and other solid fuels for heating, exacerbating particulate levels. Sensitive groups like children and the elderly should limit outdoor activities on calm, foggy days. Spring (March to May) brings some relief with increasing winds that disperse pollutants, though dust storms from surrounding arid lands can spike particulate matter, making late spring preferable for outdoor exertion. Summer (June to August) sees the lowest pollution as higher temperatures and occasional breezes aid ventilation, but intense heat can lead to ozone formation from vehicle emissions, with midday hours best avoided by those with respiratory issues. Autumn (September to November) marks a transition, with cooling temperatures and reduced wind allowing pollutants to accumulate again, particularly from agricultural residue burning after harvests. Throughout the year, the lack of monsoon rains means minimal natural cleansing, so planning outdoor activities for windy days or early mornings is advisable, and using masks during high-dust periods can mitigate health risks for vulnerable populations.