Book flights to Najaf (NJF)

Book your visit to Najaf

Known as Iraq’s holiest city, Najaf is a spectacular combination of ornate architecture and spiritual tranquillity. A deeply traditional destination with a strong sense of identity, Najaf welcomes visitors from around the world.

Bustling markets immerse you in the everyday life of the locals as well as a chance to buy beautifully handcrafted souvenirs and the most expensive of spices, saffron. The food is spicy, flavoursome and delicious, and the tea is plentiful and very sweet!

At the top of the list of places to see is the 10th-century Imam Ali Shrine, a place of devotion for millions of pilgrims. This centre for learning and study retains its scholarly character today, and debating is a lively pastime in the cafés and tea houses throughout the city.

Things to do in Najaf

The main reason most people travel to Najaf is to visit Imam Ali Mosque, the shrine of the first imam and the prophet Muhammad's cousin and son-in-law. With its glittering golden dome and intricate tile work, it’s a feast for the senses as well as a deeply spiritual place.

To see one of the oldest mosques, visit the Great Mosque of Kufa, a 7th century masterpiece that today features 28 semi-circular towers supporting the huge exterior wall. Recent excavations indicate there may have been an even older mosque on the site, making this a hugely significant historical site as well as an important religious one.

You can discover more about the city’s history at the Najaf Museum, which is filled with fascinating exhibits and artefacts dating back to the city’s beginnings.

Activities in Najaf

Immerse yourself in literature at the Najaf Seminary, one of the most important learning centres in the Islamic world. Lectures, seminars and discussions explore Islamic culture, as well as more in-depth examinations of the Qur’an.

For a family-friendly day out, the Al Sheraa Complex for Entertainment is a combination of great shopping, dining and entertainment for all ages, as well as peaceful gardens. Or visit the Najaf Amusements Park, with thrilling rides for adults, and more age-appropriate rides for younger children.

Escape the city with a day trip to the Najaf Sea. This huge salt lake covering over 100 square miles is a unique ecosystem surrounded by a desert landscape. It’s a chance to see how traditional life is lived in the towns and villages on its shoreline.

Food in Najaf

Traditional food in Iraq is bursting with flavour, with herbs and spices, including saffron, playing a key role in its cuisine. One of the most popular is Qeimeh Najafi, a spicy dish made from meat, lentils and chickpeas, served with rice.

Street food revolves around kebabs and the most famous of Middle Eastern dishes, falafel. Najafi lamb kebabs are spicy and succulent, usually served with bread or rice.

During religious occasions, look out for Dabasiyah Halwa, made with date syrup, sugar and cardamon powder mixed into a melt-in-the-mouth flaky pastry.

For a sweet treat that’ll give you a burst of energy try daheen, made from flour, ghee, walnuts, sugar and buffalo cream. Or go for something a little spicier with beef and lamb kebabs with a sprinkle of purple sumac for a kick of flavour.

Shopping in Najaf

The sheer number of visitors flocking to Najaf has led to a boom in retail outlets, and you’ll see new stores and malls springing up across the city. For an authentic shopping experience, the Al Sooq Al Kabeer is the city’s largest market and is packed with everything you can imagine, from herbs and spices to textiles, jewellery and religious artefacts.

For some air-conditioned comfort, Najaf has some exceptional modern malls, including the Najaf City Mall and the Al Najaf Great Mall Hypermarket, both of which have department stores, boutiques and booths selling jewellery, clothing and electronics.

For a more intimate shopping experience, there are lots of small local shops tucked away behind the Shrine of Imam Ali selling headscarves, religious artefacts and souvenirs.