Enjoy extraordinary journeys with us
When you fly from Colombo to Basra with Qatar Airways, every detail is carefully designed to make your journey exceptional from the moment you board. Experience renowned hospitality as our attentive cabin crew welcomes you, ensuring you are well cared for throughout your flight. Step into a modern aircraft interior, where spacious seating and elegant design create a relaxing atmosphere. Settle in and explore Oryx One, our award-winning in-flight entertainment system, offering thousands of movies, TV shows and games. Whether you prefer a light snack or full-course meal, enjoy a menu of gourmet cuisine, freshly prepared and inspired by global flavours. With plush pillows, soft blankets and luxury amenity kits, you can rest in unmatched comfort and arrive feeling refreshed.
Get ready for a smooth travel experience as you depart from Bandaranaike International Airport, with a layout designed to help you move around easily. Located in Katunayake, north of Colombo, the airport features clear signposting, accessible facilities and a practical range of services for your convenience.
Reaching the airport is simple. You can book a taxi or organise a private transfer for a direct ride to the terminal. If you plan to take public transport, hop onto a bus, with regular services operating between Colombo and Katunayake. Prefer to drive? You’ll find parking areas close to the terminal, including short‑term and remote options connected by pedestrian paths, giving you the flexibility to choose what suits you best.
Inside the terminal, you’ll seamlessly pass through check‑in and security, thanks to streamlined processes run by a team of efficient staff. You can also access useful amenities such as prayer rooms, currency exchange counters and customer service points. While waiting for your flight, explore a variety of duty-free stores where you can shop for last-minute essentials or find something special to spoil yourself. When it’s time to unwind, relax in one of the airport’s comfortable lounges, offering a quiet space to prepare for take‑off.
Basra is a truly vibrant and historic Iraqi port city. It's strategically located on the Shatt al-Arab waterway, which is formed by the convergence of the legendary Tigris and Euphrates rivers. This unique geography has often earned it the nickname the 'Venice of the East', due to its intricate system of canals and long history as a major commercial centre.
The city merges ancient culture with contemporary sophistication, and its roots date back to the 7th century. To immerse yourself in its deep past, visit the Basra Museum, which showcases a compelling collection of artefacts from the Mesopotamian civilisation.
For a taste of local life, explore the old bazaars, which bustle with traders selling regional spices, textiles, and Basra's world-renowned fresh dates. You can also experience the city's modern heartbeat during an evening walk along the lively Basra Corniche, a scenic waterfront promenade.
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