Cheap Flights to Basrah (BSR)

The table lists fares for return flights to Basra with noted carrier. The fares are based on a historic data (date, time mentioned). Fares are non-warranted and subject to change. The cost of plane tickets to Basra comprises of base fare, fuel surcharges, airport/airline taxes, and our service fee. Baggage fee could be additional. Check our Terms and Conditions for details.

Basra, Iraq Travel Guide

Basra, or Basrah, which in Arabic means “the overwatcher” is an Iraqi city located on the Shatt al-Arab between Kuwait and Iran. Some connects its nomenclature with its origin as an Arab military base against the Sassanids. Many argue that the name is derived from the Aramaic word basratha, meaning “place of huts, settlement”.

The city has got a plethora of sightseeing and entertainment options for its visitors. Sinbad Island, Sayab statue, Basra Museum, Sayyed Ali al-Musawi Mosque and Sayab’s house ruins are a few to name. In addition, there are boats to help you short cruise along the Shatt al-Arab.

Basrah is connected with the US cities by means of flagship carriers only. Connecting flights have their layover at DXB, IST, ORD, etc.

Geography of Basrah

Basra is on the bank of Shatt-Al-Arab waterway, which makes its way to the Persian Gulf. Basra is roughly 110 km (68 mi) from the Persian Gulf. The city shares its eastern border with the Shatt-Al-Arab and western border with Basra waterways. The city administrations have found ways to keep Basra cool and saturated. It has a complex network of canals and streams to support transportation. These have also become point of tourist attractions.

Airport in Basra

Basrah International Airport

Official Name: Basrah International Airport

Airport Code: BSR

Location: The airport is in the southern city of Basra

Hub for: Iraqi Airways

Interesting Facts about the Airport: The airport serves the public and military aviation purposes, and it’s recognized as the 2nd busiest airport in Iraq.

Airlines Operating Flights to Basra from US Cities

Airlines Operating Flights to Basra from Non-US Cities

Flight Distance, Time and Time Difference

If you are flying to Basrah for the first time, you are likely to have this question on your mind. We appreciate your eagerness. The table below lists the flight distance and flight time from a few cities in the US to Basrah. Iraq and the US are geographically apart, and this distance leads to a huge time difference between the departure and arrival cities, which you must take note of. In addition, mind the transfer time you are to spent at the connection airport(s) enroute.

Best Time to Visit Basrah

The best time to visit Basrah is from October to mid-April. The number of visitors takes a plunge in summer, from May to September. The upper marks of the mercury swings between highs of 90s and lows of 100s degree Fahrenheit. Showers starting with the fall season starting with October brings temperature into comfortable range.

Top Attractions in Basrah

1. Basra Museum

Opened in September 2016 in the former Lakeside Palace of Saddam Hussein, Basra Museum has become one of the most visited place in Iraq. It celebrates the rich culture, art and history of the country and region. The museum is funded and supported by an organization named The Friends of Basrah Museum. FOBM received a UK Cultural Protection Fund and Grant award in December 2016. The museum entry fee is: Iraqi citizens $1, foreign visitors $10.

2. Old mosque of Basra (Mosque of martyr Hassan)

Your visit to Basrah remains incomplete without a visit to the old mosque of Basra. The traditional mosque is dedicated to Al-Ḥasan ibn Alī ibn Abī Ṭālib, popularly known as Hasan or Hassan, who was the eldest son of Ali and Muhammad’s daughter Fatimah according to Quran. Hasan is revered as the second Imam who was known for his kindness, knowledge, tolerance and bravery.

3. Sayab’s House Ruins

The most famous home of the poet Badr Shakir al-Sayyab is worthy of your attention. This large mansion house is located between Upper Largo & Lundin Links in Fife. Much of the credit for restoring this historical building goes to James Durham. It was his massive efforts and funding that the building received Adam styled renovation in 1753. During the World War II, it served as HQ for the Independent Polish Parachute Brigade who fought under General Sosabowski in Operation Market-Garden and then it housed the Polish Military Geographical Institute until 1946.

4. Sayab statue (At al-Basrah Corniche)

Discover the life-like sculpture by the artist and sculptor nada’ Kadhum of this legendary poet (December 24, 1926 – December 24, 1964). Badr Shakir al Sayyab was well known throughout the Arab world and he stands as one of the most influential Arab poets of all time. His works have been translated in more than 10 languages including English, Persian, Somali and Urdu.

5. Sinbad Island

Ever read or heard of the voyages of Sinbad? If yes, here is a chance to experience those fantasies. Sinbad Island, a tourist landmark, named after Sinbad the Sailor, who embarked on his legendary journeys from Basra, is one of the top attractions in Basrah. The place has got parks and nightlife-clubs, and is loved by honeymoon as well as family vacationers with kids.