Overview
Najaf is the third holiest site in Islam, after Mecca and Medina, making it a major destination for Shi'a pilgrims from around the world. The city houses the Imam Ali Mosque with its iconic gold-gilded dome, and adjacent Wadi-us-Salaam cemetery, reputedly the largest in the world.
Architecture · History
Before you go
Culture
As a holy Shi'a city, Najaf is extremely conservative—no alcohol, modest dress required, women expected to wear chadors.
Money
Carry USD or Iraqi Dinars. Shared taxis: 3,000 IQD to Karbala, 7,500 IQD to Hillah, 15,000 IQD to Baghdad or Nasiriyah (October 2022 rates).
Safety
Najaf is one of the safest cities in Iraq due to its almost entirely Shi'a population, with extensive military and police checkpoints protecting tourist and pilgrimage sites.
Transport
Najaf International Airport has flights from Baghdad, Iran, Istanbul, and Dubai. Careem ridesharing app works and accepts international credit cards.