Train travel in Iraq is currently possible on the route Baghad – Basra. The first railway in Iraq was opened in 1914. The line with total length of 123 km connected Bagdad and Samarra and it was built to 1435 mm gauge. After United States-led invasion of the Republic of Iraq in 2003 the railway network gradually declined and recovery has been very slow.
In 2014 Iraqi Railways acquired new trains manufactured in China.
There are no international trains in Iraq. International train Taurus Express from Istanbul to Baghdad was ceased many years ago. Construction of the railway link between Iran and Iraq is underway. The new railway line from Basra to Shalamcheh (35 km) will connect the national rail networks of both countries.
Trains in Iraq are sometimes targeted by terrorists, so disruptions in rail traffic or temporary suspension of passenger services may occur.
Last updated: 03.04.2024
Train travel in Iraq – basic information
Railway services are operated by the Iraqi Republic Railways. The carrier has a website, but the information is not updated, and it is difficult to find the current schedule online. There are probably trains running from Baghdad to Basra (daytime and nighttime). Special trains are also operated to transport pilgrims on specific holidays, such as the Baghdad to Karbala or Basra – Um Qasr route.
Trains from Baghdad to Fallujah were probably suspended.
Train from Baghdad to Basra is comprised of Chinese diesel multiple units. 10-car long-distance train has two power cars and accommodates up to 343 passengers. There are first and second class carriages, sleeping car and dining car. Top speed is 160 km/h but trains operate at an average speed of 60–70 km/h and a top speed of 125 km/h.
Tran Baghdad – Basra covers 550 km in 8–12 hours, in each direction.
Useful websites:
Iraqi Railways – official website
Iraqi Railways – official fanpage with up-to-date information
Trains from Baghdad to Mosul were suspended.
Railway lines in Iraq used for freight transport:
Baghdad – Basra
Baghdad – Samarra
Baghdad – Musayib – Karbala
Baghdad – Fallujah- Ramadi
There are plans to reopen Baghdad – Baiji – Kirkuk and Baghdad – Ninawa lines in the future.
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