SpiceJet launches direct flights to Iraq’s Najaf for Indian pilgrims

SpiceJet has announced the launch of special non-stop flights from Mumbai and Ahmedabad to Najaf, Iraq, starting October 18 and 19, 2025, respectively. With this launch, SpiceJet becomes the only Indian airline to operate direct flights to Najaf.

Najaf or Al-Najaf al-Ashraf is a city in central-south Iraq about 160 km south of Baghdad. It is the capital of Najaf province. Najaf is among the holiest cities in Islam and a significant pilgrimage destination for Shia Muslims. It is home to the Shrine of Imam Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad, which attracts millions of devotees each year.

The city also houses Wadi-us-Salaam, the world’s largest cemetery, believed to hold the graves of prophets, scholars, and saints. Other key landmarks include the Kufa Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Islamic history, and the Great Najaf Seminary, a leading global centre for Shia theological learning.

Najaf’s proximity to Karbala and Kufa makes it an important part of religious circuits for pilgrims seeking spiritual enrichment and reflection.

The Najaf flights from Mumbai and Ahmedabad will operate between October 2025 and March 2026, covering multiple departure and return dates. The service will offer pilgrims flexibility and convenience during the peak travel period for religious visits.

Connecting Indian Pilgrims to Najaf

Najaf holds deep spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide as the site of Imam Ali’s shrine. Every year, thousands of Indian pilgrims visit the city to offer prayers and seek blessings. Until now, travellers had to rely on connecting flights and lengthy transit routes. The new direct flights will simplify this journey, providing a faster and more comfortable travel experience.

Apart from Imam Ali’s shrine, Najaf is home to other sacred sites such as Wadi-us-Salaam — the world’s largest cemetery — the Kufa Mosque, and the Great Najaf Seminary. Its proximity to Karbala and Kufa makes it a key destination for pilgrims undertaking a multi-city religious journey.

Flight Schedule:

Tese Najaf flights are initially being introduced as special services. However, the airline is exploring the possibility of making them a regular feature, subject to regulatory clearances, given the strong demand for religious travel.

“For millions of devout Indians, Najaf is a pilgrimage of a lifetime. SpiceJet is proud to be the only Indian airline to offer direct connectivity to this revered city. By providing these non-stop flights, we are not just offering a service; we are honouring a sacred journey and making it accessible with unmatched ease and comfort,” Debojo Maharshi, Chief Business Officer of SpiceJet, said.

The launch aligns with SpiceJet’s broader expansion plan. The airline aims to more than double its operational fleet and triple its available seat kilometers (ASKM) by December 2025. New aircraft induction and the opening of additional domestic and international routes are part of this growth strategy.

SpiceJet is one of India’s leading low-cost carriers, operating a fleet of Boeing 737s and Q-400s.