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  • Iraq: 20 Years On

Iraq's flourishing tourism sector unveils cultural treasures and beauty - in pictures

Visitors travel to the country to see one of saddam hussein's palaces and the ancient city of babylon.

iraq tourism 2023

Many tourists are visiting Iraq from Gulf countries. Defying warnings against travel, a rising number are also trickling in from Europe and the US. Reuters

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Reporting by Timour Azhari and Maher Nazeh in Baghdad, Ahmed Saeed in Babil and Khalid al-Mousily in Mosul; Writing by Timour Azhari; Editing by Ros Russell

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The Adventures of Nicole

The 10 Best Things to do in Baghdad, the Capital of Iraq

Updated October 2023, The 10 Best Things to do in Baghdad, the Capital of Iraq was originally published in June 2022

Planning to travel to Baghdad as part of your greater  Iraq itinerary ? Well, look no further, I’ll give you all the details to help you plan your trip and get the most out of your visit to Baghdad.

Baghdad has a long history stretching back several millennia, founded by the Abbasids in 762, a little north of the Sassanian capital of Ctesiphon. But the history of the general area surrounding Baghdad goes back to 3000 BC, hosting civilizations such as the Sumerians, Akkadians, Babylonians, and Assyrians. Back then, Baghdad was named Madinat al Salam at its foundation, meaning city of peace.

In more recent history, Baghdad was heralded as one of the most dangerous cities in the world owing to the brutal dictatorship of Saddam Hussein, the 1980s Iran-Iraq War, the 1991 Gulf War, and the 2003 US Invasion of Iraq and subsequent Fall of Baghdad, and later the rise of ISIS. These days Baghdad (as well as a decent amount of the nation of Iraq) seems to have turned a new leaf, becoming a bit more secure in the past few years. 

With that said, things can and do still happen in Baghdad, so a visit is not without any risks- it’s just improved and become a lot less dangerous than it has been in the past 30+ years.

Starting March 2021, Iraq introduced a  visa on arrival scheme  for several nationalities entering Iraq at Baghdad, Basra, and Najaf International Airports, making visiting Iraq easier than it’s ever been in decades. 

So, continue reading my Baghdad travel guide to find out the best things to do in Baghdad as well as where to stay, what to eat, and more. 

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Things to do in Baghdad

Iraq museum.

Assyrian Gallery, Iraq Museum, Baghdad, Iraq

The  Iraq Museum  is well worth putting in the effort to visit as it houses some of Iraq’s most impressive and important artifacts. Sadly, the museum was looted following the 2003 invasion, but the Iraq Museum opened its doors again in 2015 and is slowly gaining some pieces back.

The museum features countless displays belonging to different Mesopotamian (Sumerian, Akkadian, Babylonian, Assyrian), Persian, and Islamic civilizations. The most impressive section of the museum (in my opinion) is the Assyrian Gallery.

Entry, hours, and getting to the Iraq Museum:  Getting access to the Iraq Museum isn’t exactly easy as it’s not really open to the general public. The easiest way of securing entry is by making advance plans with a guide who can get you in. You will need them to schedule a time with the curator. 

The Iraq Museum is one of the few things to do in Baghdad that isn’t within walking distance of Central Baghdad, so grab a  Careem  or taxi here.

Al Mutanabi Street

Mutanabi Statue, Mutanabi Street, Baghdad, Iraq

Al Mutanabi Street forms part of Baghdad’s historic center, a pedestrianized street and among the oldest in Baghdad. The street is named after Al Mutanabi, a famous 10th century poet who originally hailed from Kufa. 

Al Mutanabi Street is lined with bookstores, stationery shops, and cafes, nodding to its legacy as the center of Baghdad’s intellectual and literary scene, dating back to Mutanabi’s heyday and the times of the Abbasid Caliphate. You can even find the  Statue of Mutanabi  at the end of the street overlooking the  Tigris River .

One cafe not to miss in Baghdad as you meander along Al Mutanabi Street is the over century-old  Shabandar Cafe . Another Al Mutanabi Street monument you can’t miss is the Ottoman-era  Qishla Clock .

Al Mutanabi Street Hours:  Officially the street is open any time but almost all of the shops, stalls, and cafe close by 3 pm and is essentially a ghost town after that. The best hours to visit are between 9 am and 1 pm when things are hopping.

Shabandar Cafe

Shabandr Cafe, Mutanabi Street, Baghdad, Iraq

Plop down on a bench and put in an order for a glass of chai or qawa (coffee) and maybe even some nargilĂŠ (hookah/shisha) and watch the afternoon roll by among Baghdad’s intellectuals.

Shabandar Cafe opened its doors on Al Mutanabi Street in 1917, over 100 years ago, and has served as a meeting point for the scholars and thinkers of Baghdad. Before the building served as the Shabandar Cafe, it was the printing press of merchant Abdel Majid Al-Shabandar.

The current owner, Mohammed Al Khashali took over Shabandar Cafe in 1963 but unfortunately lost his sons and grandsons in a car bombing that took place on Al Mutanabi Street in 2007. 

Shabandar Cafe hours:  8 am to 6 pm.

Mustansiriyah Madrasa

Mustansiriyah Madrasa, Baghdad, Iraq

Located near the Safafreer Copper Market and not far from Al Mutanabi Street is the 13th century Mustansiriyah Madrasa. The madrasa (an Islamic university) is among the oldest in the Islamic world, founded by the Abbasids. It is laid out in the typical four iwan pattern.

Entrance to Mustansiriyah Madrasa:  Mustansiriyah isn’t really open, but it’s not really closed either. If the doors are shuttered and you can’t find anyone to open them, you can admire it from the outside at least. 

Souk Al Safafreer 

Iraqi kilim, Iraqi carpet, Souk al Safafreer, Baghdad, Iraq

Just off Al Mutanabi Street is the over 300 year old Souk Al Safafreer. Here you can find beautiful copper lamps, trays, plates, and more. If you are planning to make some purchases, it would be wise to go with someone that knows their copper as mass-produced replicas imported from other countries in the region are common. 

Souk Al Safafreer hours:  Much like the stalls on Al Mutanabi Street and Al Rashid Street, you’ll find almost all the stalls in Souk Al Safafreer hours will be shut by 3 pm, so it’s best to visit between 9 am and 1 pm when most everyone is still open. 

Baghdadi Museum

The Baghdadi Museum is dedicated to the local history of the city. It features wax figures that depict different periods of Baghdad’s history as well as local traditions. Full disclosure though: I didn’t visit the Baghdadi Museum myself (was too museum’d out).

Baghdadi Museum opening hours and entrance:  The museum is open from 9 am to 2 pm and is closed on Tuesdays. Entry is 1,000 IQD.

Al Rashid Street

Haydar Khana Msoque, Baghdad, Iraq

Al Rashid is another historic street in Baghdad that meets up with Al Mutanabi Street. Here you can find just about anything being sold out of the shops and stalls that line the street. There are also many cafes along Al Rashid, making it great for a lunchtime stroll. 

A famous shop on Al Rashid Street that you must visit is  Haj Zebala Juice . Haj Zebala was been a prominent Baghdad fixture for over 100 years, serving up, you guessed it- juice.

Most locals will say to get the (raisin) grape but I preferred the pomegranate (though, both were quite good so you can’t go wrong).

The owner, Haji Mohammad Abdel Ghafour is the third generation of hands the establishment has been in. A glass will cost you 1,000 IQD.

Impossible to miss as you meander your way down the street is beautifully tiled  Haydar Khana Mosque  worth a pause to snap a photo or two as you pass by.

Opening hours for Al Rashid Street shops:  Most shops on Al Rashid close by 3 pm, so best to visit earlier in the day.

Tahrir Square

Tahrir Square, Baghdad, Iraq

Tahrir Square is the largest public square in Baghdad, located in the Al Rusafa Neighborhood. Tahrir means  liberation  in Arabic and was named so to commemorate the formation of the Republic of Iraq in 1958. 

A prominent feature of Tahrir Square is the Nasb al Hurriyah Monument (Freedom Monument), depicting historic events in Iraq using bas-reliefs mounted to a slab of travertine. 

Another cool monument not to miss near Tahrir Square is the  Tahrir Square Murals  painted by artists during and following the 2019 Iraqi Protests. They are located in the tunnel that leads from the square to the southeast toward Firdous Square. 

Firdous Square

17 Ramadan Mosque, Firdous Square, Baghdad, Iraq

Firdous Square is another famous Baghdad landmark, surrounded by several well-known buildings like the  17 Ramadan Mosque  and the city’s most famous hotels- the  Palestine Hotel  and the  Ishtar Sheraton Hotel , both of which garnered their fame serving as the bases for the foreign correspondents that flooded into Baghdad, following the 2003 invasion. 

Firdous Square did house a much more prominent Baghdad landmark until it was toppled over in 2003- the 12 meter tall  Saddam Hussein Statue . Fittingly, he was replaced with a garbage can. 

Firdous Square, Baghdad, Iraq

Al Shaheed Monument

Al Shaheed, Martyr Monument, Baghdad, Iraq-3

Al Shaheed, also known as the Martyr’s Monument is the famous blue-tiled somewhat egg-shaped structure that was built to commemorate those who lost their lives in the bloody Iran-Iraq War of the 1980s.

The monument itself is pretty impressive when you’re up close and actually get a sense of how large it is.

Downstairs underneath is a not-to-be-missed museum and library.

Entry, hours, and getting to Al Shaheed Monument:  Entry is 3,000 IQD per person and opening hours are 8 am to 3 pm daily. Al Shaheed Monument is located about 4.5 kilometers northeast of Tahrir Square, so order a Careem or hail a taxi to get here. 

Al Kadhimiyah Mosque

Al Yassin Mosque, Al Yassin Shrine, Al Kadhimiyah Shrine, Al Kadhimiyah Mosque, Baghdad, Iraq

Al Kadhimyah Mosque, also known as Yassin Mosque is located northwest of central Baghdad, so grab a Careem and head this way.

On arrival, female travelers wishing to go inside can pick up an abaya if they don’t have one already (the all-enveloping curtain that women must wear inside the shrines and mosques around Iraq).

The mosque is surrounded by a giant souk that sprawls out from the shrine (you’ll have to walk through the souk anyway, also grab yourself a sweet treat here afterward too).

Al Kadhimyah Mosque is an important religious complex for Twelver Shia as it houses the tombs of Imam Musa Al Kadhim and Imam Mohammad Al Jawwad, the 7th and 9th imams.

The interior architecture is quite exquisite, though if you’ve been to neighboring  Iran  and visited many shrines there you will see some definite similarities between the shrines of both nations. 

I visited in the evening (around 8 pm) and can say it was quite beautiful to see Al Kadhimiyah lit up and dazzling in the dark, though it’s worth mentioning that shrines are also nice to visit in the early morning too. 

Entry and getting to Al Kadhimiyah:  As this is a functioning religious site there is no fee for entry and is open 24 hours. To enter the mosque women must don the abaya/chador (can be purchased in the souk for 5,000 IQD) with hair covered and shoes removed and men must be wearing full-length pants and no shoes. 

Women should avoid wearing makeup as they will make you wash it off before you enter (I have heard this from numerous female travelers here), though if yours is light you’ll likely be fine (I think all of us were wearing mascara at most and we weren’t asked to clean it off).

You cannot bring in electronics including phones and cameras but there is a desk where you can check them and pick them back up after you’re done.

Al Kadhimiyah Mosque is located far from Central Baghdad in the Kadhimiyah District on the northwest of the city, so you’ll want to get a Careem or taxi.

Where to Stay in Baghdad

There are a scattering of hotels to choose from in Baghdad to fit most budgets. The hotel I’ve stayed at every time I’ve been in Baghdad had been the  Shanasheel Palace , a popular option for midrange travelers. 

Another decent midrange hotel just a couple of blocks away is the  Oscar Hotel . A friend of mine stayed there and said it was pleasant enough and comparable to the Shanasheel. 

If luxury is what you’re after, then check out the  Babylon Rotana  or  Coral Baghdad Hotel .

For budget travelers, the  Palm Beach Hotel and Restaurant  is recommended. You can call them at +9647400106827 or send an email to [email protected] . 

Best Restaurants in Baghdad

If you’re like me, then you usually have no problem finding food while you’re traveling 😂. Baghdad shouldn’t be any different, as the city offers plenty of cafes, restaurants, fast food, and food stalls. 

Of course, given where Baghdad is, you can expect a lot of dishes popular around the general Middle East region, which if you’re like me and Middle Eastern is one of your absolute favorites, then you’ll find Baghdad to be a delicious city (ate my way across it, no lie).

Shawarma, Al Rashid Street, Baghdad, Iraq

Midrange Restaurants in Baghdad

If you want some recommendations here are places I ate in Baghdad at that I thought were great:  Darbuna Restaurant ,  Dar Al Atraqchi Heritage Cafe ,  Al Faisaliya Restaurant & Cafe ,  Shmesani Restaurant , and  Saj Aleef Restaurant  (note that these are all midrange restaurants, so expect a meal with a drink to cost around 15,000 IQD).

Budget Restaurants in Baghdad

As for people trying to get by on a more strict budget, there are numerous cafes and fast food shops scattered all around Baghdad, including popular areas like Al Rashid and At Mutanabi Streets. So many so that I am not going to bother listing them all.

Masgouf, Abu Nawas Street, Baghdad, Iraq

One unique dish to Iraq to try in Baghdad (and other cities in Iraq too) is masgouf, a traditional Mesopotamian fish dish that is often considered the national dish of Iraq. Baghdad prides itself on grilling up the best masgouf in Iraq, so a visit wouldn’t be complete without trying some. 

Masgouf is simply a carp caught out of the river that is gutted and split down its back and spread into a single flat round. The masgouf is then covered in a marinade of salt, turmeric, tamarind, and olive oil before being propped up on an iron grill rack or on spikes next to a fire and cooked to crispy perfection. It usually takes about 60-90 minutes for the fish to cook.

There are a scattering of masgouf restaurants along the  Tigris Riverfront on Abu Nawas Street , so this is the place to go if you’re looking to try some masgouf.

Arriving at Baghdad Airport

Arriving in Baghdad by air is surprisingly easy these days. In March 2021, Iraq began a new  visa-free scheme  for several nationalities. If you are one of the 38 eligible passports, then all you’ll need to do is pay the $77 fee on arrival at the window just before immigration. Once you have your visa sticker, continue through immigration, and voilĂŠ, welcome to Iraq.

Getting to Central Baghdad from Baghdad Airport

After you’ve collected your baggage, you have two options for getting into Central Baghdad. The cheaper option is to take the white shuttle bus that comes by the arrivals hall to Abbas Ibn Firnas Square, located outside the airport security zone for 8,000 IQD. From there, order a Careem to your final destination (should cost about 15,000 IQD to Central Baghdad).

If you don’t want the headache of taking a shuttle and a taxi, there are taxis in the garage opposite the arrivals hall. You can expect to pay 30,000-45,000 IQD for a ride to Central Baghdad.

Money Exchange/ATM at Baghdad Airport

You can exchange money at the airport but you won’t quite as good a rate (the current rate as of  October 2023  is  1,310 IQD to $1 USD ) as you’ll get in the city, so I would recommend changing enough to get into Central Baghdad and then exchange the rest later. There were a couple of ATMs inside the airport but neither seemed to be working (this is the case in much of Federal Iraq, so bringing money to exchange would be wise). 

Sim Cards at Baghdad Airport

Sims are relatively cheap and easy to pick up. You can grab one at the airport if it is open when you arrive and if not get one in the city.

Getting Around in Baghdad

Baghdad is a big sprawling city with nightmarish traffic (literally I think the worst I have ever seen). Luckily, most of Baghdad’s main sites are in Central Baghdad making it easy to get around on foot between them. 

For outlying sites such as Al Shaheed Monument and Al Kadhimiyah Mosque use the  Careem App  to order taxis (more or less the same as Uber) to avoid haggling over prices with drivers on the street. 

Tigris River, Al Mutanabi Street, Baghdad, Iraq

Getting Out of Baghdad

Getting out of Baghdad is relatively easy with frequent shared taxis departing to most cities around the country. Note that there are a couple of different garages around the city (garage is the word they use in Iraq in place of station or terminal). 

Allawi Garage:  You can find shared taxis and minibusses departing from Allawi Garage, but it’s important to note that it’s split into two with northbound transport leaving out of one side and southbound leaving out of the other. Go to the  North Garage  for transport to Mosul, Samarra, Tikrit, and most other destinations between them and go to the  South Garage  for transport to Hillah (Babylon), Karbala, Najaf, Nasiriyah, and Basra.

Alnahdha Garage : For northbound shared taxis and minibusses toward Iraqi Kurdistan (and that general direction) Alnahdha Garage is where you’ll want to go. The main destinations served from Alnahdha are Kirkuk, Erbil , and Sulaymaniyah. 

Baghdad Central Station:  Iraq has trains surprisingly, though the only route really open is Baghdad-Basra. The trains only depart Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights and arrive the following morning. Read up more about the  Baghdad-Basra train .

Safety in Baghdad

It’s no secret that Baghdad is not the safest city in the world, though it isn’t the most dangerous city either. With that said, you do need to exercise more caution in Baghdad than you would in most other destinations around the world. 

Explosions, terrorist attacks, kidnappings, and bombings all still do occur from time to time which is why most foreign governments advise against any travel to Baghdad as well as the remainder of Iraq. Personally, I felt safe while visiting Baghdad despite the complex situation the city is in. Just know that security can change rapidly with little to no warning.

If you are highly concerned about safety while visiting Baghdad I would suggest hiring a local guide or local tour company such as  Safraty  to set up your trip and take the edge off for you. 

Have any questions about visiting Baghdad?

Ask in the comments section below.

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UNDP Iraq and USAID Seek to Revitalize Tourism in the Kurdistan Region

For Immediate Release

Press Release

30 July, Erbil - In a milestone event aimed at reviving tourism in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Iraq and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) partnered with the Kurdistan Regional Government’s Ministry of Tourism to unveil the “Reform Roadmap”, a groundbreaking plan to revitalize tourism in the region.

“The path to economic resilience lies in diversification, and boosting tourism support to the most frequented region in Iraq is a great opportunity for the whole country to do just that.” Says Auke Lootsma, UNDP Iraq’s Resident Representative.

Economic resilience through diversification

KRI is the most popular travel destination within Iraq, as it is nestled in a part of the country that features lush greenery and picturesque mountains. In this area of the country, the tourism and hospitality sectors have emerged as one of the key drivers of economic growth and job creation in the region. 

“The Kurdistan region with its rich cultural heritage and stunning backdrops is the perfect place for diversification to unfold. UNDP, along with our partners, USAID and the KRI government, will continue to encourage and support this important initiative that will lead to sustainable tourism, economic growth and job creation,” said Auke Lootsma, UNDP Iraq Resident Representative.

The Reform Roadmap, developed with financial support from USAID, solidifies the two agencies’ unwavering commitment to improve tourism in the KRI, an area with immense untapped potential for tourism-led economic growth.

“Tourism has a special place in any society. It simultaneously helps communities preserve their cultural heritage and share this wealth and beauty with the outside world. The Iraqi Kurdistan Region receives millions of tourists every year. Through this USAID-funded roadmap, the U.S. government is supporting the Kurdistan Regional Government in its efforts to take a serious step toward developing this vital sector,” said Elise Jensen, USAID Mission Director in Iraq. “With the launch of this comprehensive roadmap for tourism sector development, the path laid that celebrates the region’s heritage and embraces sustainable practices. We are proud of our partnership with the UNDP and the Ministry of Tourism on this important initiative.” 

A roadmap to success

The “Reform Roadmap” identifies areas that are most important for a sustainable and successful tourism development in KRI.  It focuses on recommendations with the biggest impact on the tourism industry, including tourism legislation, laws, and regulations; marketing; and developing tourism sites and products. 

The Roadmap provides guidance on how to stimulate private sector investment through different financing modalities such as public-private partnerships for the development of tourism sites and products. It underscores the necessity of tourism law, regulations, institutional structure and tourism business quality assessment criteria for the Kurdistan Region, taking into account the local legal context and authorities.

The Roadmap also includes a comparative study of the tourism sector legal framework to examine the institutional structure and quality assessment criteria from countries with well-established tourism industries, in this region and the European region, taking these best practices and applying it to this context.

“The Kurdistan Region enjoys a rich culture, heritage and beautiful nature, and has the potential to become a prime tourist destination in the Middle east. A vibrant tourism economy generates livelihood opportunities, particularly for the youth and women in the region. This Roadmap plays a vital role in that.” said Ms. Amal Jalal – Head of KRG Board of Tourism.

The launch of this pivotal roadmap marks a significant stride towards a more sustainable, professionalized, and profitable tourism industry in the Kurdistan Region and for the country as a whole.

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Join one of our tours in iraq.

After several decades of being isolated from the rest of the world, Iraq is finally gaining much-needed peace and stability, allowing travelers to discover the remains of Ancient Mesopotamia, as well as mesmerizing religious sites such as Karbala, or to experience a real cultural immersion in the Arab Marshes.

From Samarra to Babylon and Ur, our tours in Iraq are heavily focused on both historical and cultural Iraq but what makes us unique is that they also emphasize Iraq’s unfortunate contemporary history and the legacy of ISIS, which is still visible in the northern part of the country.

We have scheduled group expeditions for Iraq all year long, plus we can also organize any sort of private, tailored adventure.

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Need to know for your Iraq tour

How to get a visa.

There is a visa on arrival available at Baghdad International Airport. It costs $75.

Is it safe?

The situation is getting better by the day, plus we will be traveling with a group of local experts who know the latest security updates.

Which nationalities can join our Iraq tours?

Basically, all nationalities which are eligible to the visa on arrival. See FAQ.

Our scheduled group tours for Iraq

From Basra to Erbil, our Iraq tours cover the entire country, including the region of Kurdistan.

Most of our scheduled tours in Iraq are 8 or 9-day trips, usually composed of 12 people.

Our tours for Iraqi Kurdistan are also 1-week long, and we tend to schedule them, so you can combine both Iraq and Kurdistan in a 2-week long tour!

Upcoming Iraq Tours

These are all our upcoming tours to Iraq (including Kurdistan region)

iraq tourism 2023

Iraqi Kurdistan Budget Tour

Highlights of Iraqi Kurdistan during the blossoming month of April

iraq tourism 2023

Federal Iraq classic itinerary

From Mesopotamian Marshes to Karbala, Babylon, Baghdad and Mosul, this is one of the most sought tours we offer

iraq tourism 2023

Full Iraq Round 2: Federal Iraq + Kurdistan

Here’s an extended version of our Iraq tour, which also includes Kurdistan

iraq tourism 2023

Full Iraq in Spanish

Here’s an extended version of our Iraq tour for Spanish-speaking people. This also includes Kurdistan.

All our Federal Iraq Group Tours include

Accommodation

Private transportation and driver around Iraq

Breakfast and lunch

Clearance for all checkpoints

English-speaking Iraq tour guide

Entrance fees to all sites listed in the itinerary

Airport transfer in Baghdad

Fast-track visa service upon arrival in Baghdad

Private, tailored trips for Federal Iraq

Do you want to travel solo, or with a group of friends?

From city tours around Baghdad to compelling multi-day itineraries, we are able to design any sort of adventure based on your needs, 365 days a year, almost anywhere in Iraq.

If you can’t afford a private, solo trip, we can also help you find other partners to travel with.

Tell us your dates

When do you want to travel to Iraq

Which places do you want to visit

We will design the perfect itinerary based on your needs

Where do you want to start from

Erbil or Baghdad?

Sample itinerary for our Iraq tours

Here’s the standard 8-day tour we offer on most of our expeditions.

Day 1 – Arrival in Baghdad

  • The first day is a day to take things easy.
  • We will be welcoming you throughout the day, picking you up at the airport, and checking in at the hotel.
  • Once everybody is settled, in the evening we can all go for a drink or dinner but officially, the sightseeing tour starts on day 2.
  • Overnight in Baghdad.

Day 2 – Full day in Baghdad

  • The guided tour starts on the second day, a day which we will spend exploring the city of Baghdad.
  • We will discover the old book market, the leather and copper bazaars, the historical Shabandar cafĂŠ, and all the old city highlights. We will also visit the Martyr’s Monument and, depending on the political situation, we might also try to get into the Green Zone, let’s see.
  • If open, we will also visit the National Museum of Iraq.
  • In the evening, we will all go to Dar Al Atraqchi Heritage Cafe, a traditional but pretty modern cafĂŠ and restaurant.

Day 3 – Ancient Babylon and Karbala

  • Ancient Babylon was the first great civilization in the world, believed to be the first city to ever reach a population of more than 200,000.
  • World wonders such as the Hanging Gardens and the Tower of Babel used to be within these walls.
  • Today, Babylon is an archaeological site, featuring a mind-blowing replica of the Ishtar Gate and an actual Lion of Babylon.
  • We will also visit the former Saddam Hussein Palace, today overlooking the ancient city of Babylon.
  • After lunch, we will head to Karbala, the holiest city in the world for Shia Muslims, a surprisingly touristic city visited every year by, literally, millions and millions of pilgrims.
  • We will check out the two jaw-dropping shrines, and spend the night wandering around the lively streets of Karbala.
  • Overnight in Karbala.

Day 4 – Karbala & Nasiriya

  • There’s so much going on in Karbala that, in the morning, we will take things slowly, wandering around town, checking the places which we probably missed the night before, and then, we will head for Nasiriya, a good 4 to 5-hour drive, with checkpoints included.
  • Nasiriya is the largest city in southern Iraq, a high-security city, home to the American-built Al-Hoot prison, a maximum-security prison today filled with ISIS fighters. Nasiriya is also the gateway to The Mesopotamian Marshes.
  • Overnight in Nasiriya.

Day 5 – The Mesopotamian Marshes

  • This is going to be one of the most exciting days of our trip, since we will head for Chibayish, home to the Arab Marshes, a wetland ecosystem in south Iraq, an aquatic landscape in the middle of the desert, home to a distinct cultural group called the Marsh Arabs.
  • We will spend the entire day getting immersed into their culture by visiting their villages, islands and eating masgouf with them, an old Mesopotamian dish consisting of a giant grilled fish.
  • In the evening, we will head back to Nasiriyah.

Day 6 – The Ziggurat of Ur and Back to Baghdad

  • In the morning, we will visit Ur, one of the oldest cities in the world (3800BC) – even older than Babylon – and believed to be the birthplace of Abraham.
  • Then, we will take the long ride to Baghdad.
  • In the evening, we can all go for dinner or drinks, and discover the modern part of Baghdad.

Day 7 – Samarra, Hatra and Mosul

  • Samarra is a city controlled by a Shia Militia, a city practically impossible to visit for independent travelers but thanks to our expert local guides, hopefully, we won’t run into any issues.
  • The city is famous for the spiral minaret of Malwiya, a UNESCO Heritage Site and one of the most famous landmarks in Iraq , absolutely stunning.
  • Then, on our way to Mosul, we will stop in Hatra, a very well-preserved ancient Mesopotamian city, located in the middle of nowhere, and also a former ISIS training camp. We will have the chance to see actual ISIS graffiti.
  • Overnight in Mosul .

Day 8 – Mosul

  • Mosul is the second most important city in Iraq and one of the oldest cities in the world, the place where ancient Nineveh was found.
  • In 2017, the city was liberated from ISIS, and people have already started to come back.
  • Yes, we will explore the war-torn old city and all its destroyed buildings, but we will also discover Mosul’s most human side by witnessing the reconstruction, getting to know kind-hearted locals, and also checking out all the lively bazaars.
  • Overnight in Mosul.

A visa is available on arrival at Baghdad International Airport. It costs 75USD.

This visa is valid for all of Iraq, including Kurdistan.

Which nationalities can join these tours?

Basically, all nationalities which are eligible to the visa on arrival:

All European Union passport holders, and also the United States (yes, Americans can travel to Iraq ), United Kingdom, Russia, China, Japan, South Korea, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Switzerland

The situation is getting better and better by the day, plus we will be traveling with a group of local experts who know the latest security updates. Moreover, we will always stick to the stable areas of Iraq.

For more information, check my Iraq safety guide .

How can I get to Iraq?

Both Baghdad and Erbil have an international airport with plenty of connections from Istanbul (Pegasus and Turkish), Doha (Qatar), or Dubai (Emirates).

Are there ATMs in Iraq?

Yes, unlike Iran or Syria, Iraq is not subjected to all those sanctions and some of their banks do accept foreign debit or credit cards.

However, Iraq is a cash economy, so it’s recommended to also bring cash. Both euros and US dollars can be easily exchanged everywhere.

Do you recommend a specific travel insurance?

Either you are joining one of our trips, or you are traveling by yourself, you might want to look for proper travel insurance. Against the Compass has been a partner with IATI for several years already, recommending it to all readers, as well as covering all Joan Torres’ personal trips.

We like it because It covers all the countries where the FCDO advises against all travel, it offers budget plans and covers all sorts of adventure activities.

Against the Compass readers can benefit from a 5% discount .

Get a quote here to claim your discount

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Restored ziggurat in ancient Ur, sumerian temple in Iraq

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Torn between its glorious past and its recent bloody history, Iraq is a country in turmoil. Just as the place was beginning to recover from the 2003 US-led invasion and its aftermath, jihadist group Isis took control of large swathes of the country's north in 2014. The tide may have turned back in favour of the Iraqi government with the recapture of Mosul and other cities in 2017, but most of Iraq remains extremely dangerous.

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Caution October 19, 2023

Worldwide caution, update january 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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Iraq Travel Advisory

Travel advisory october 22, 2023, iraq - level 4: do not travel.

Updated to reflect the ordered departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and eligible family members.

Do not travel to Iraq due to terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, civil unrest, and Mission Iraq’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens.

On October 20, 2023, the Department ordered the departure of eligible family members and non-emergency U.S. government personnel from U.S. Embassy Baghdad and U.S. Consulate General Erbil due to increased security threats against U.S. government personnel and interests.

Country Summary: U.S. citizens in Iraq face high risks to their safety and security, including the potential for violence and kidnapping. Terrorist and insurgent groups regularly attack Iraqi security forces and civilians. Anti-U.S. militias threaten U.S. citizens and international companies throughout Iraq. Attacks using improvised explosive devices, indirect fire, and unmanned aerial vehicles occur in many areas of the country, including Baghdad and other major cities. In an emergency, consular services to U.S. citizens in Iraq are limited due to severe restrictions on the movements of U.S. government personnel.

Demonstrations, protests, and strikes occur frequently throughout the country.  These events can develop quickly without prior notice, often interrupting traffic, transportation, and other services, and sometimes turning violent.

Do not travel near Iraq’s northern borders due to the continued threat of attacks by terrorist groups, armed conflict, aerial bombardment, and civil unrest.  U.S. citizens should especially avoid areas near armed groups in northern Iraq, which have been targeted with aerial strikes by neighboring countries’ militaries.

U.S. citizens should not travel through Iraq to engage in armed conflict in Syria, where they would face extreme personal risks (kidnapping, injury, or death) and legal risks (arrest, fines, and expulsion). The Kurdistan Regional Government in Iraq has stated that it will impose prison sentences of up to ten years on individuals who illegally cross the Iraq-Syria border. Additionally, fighting on behalf of or supporting designated terrorist organizations is a crime under U.S. law that can result in prison sentences and large fines in the United States.

Because of security concerns, U.S. government personnel in Baghdad are instructed not to use Baghdad International Airport. Due to risks to civil aviation operating in the Baghdad Flight Information Region, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has extended for an additional two years its Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) prohibiting certain flights at altitudes below 32,000 feet. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Iraq.

If you decide to travel to Iraq:

  • Establish your own personal security plan in coordination with your employer or host organization or consider consulting with a professional security organization.
  • Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
  • Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
  • Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones so that they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return as planned to the United States.
  • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
  • Review the Country Security Report for Iraq.
  • Visit the CDC website for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist

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Erbil, Iraq: Ultimate Travel Guide

  • Author david
  • Date November 21st, 2023

Welcome to Erbil, Iraq ! Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Kurdistan region, Erbil is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This vibrant city is often referred to as the ‘Paris of Iraq,’ and it’s not hard to see why.

With its ancient citadel that has stood for centuries, bustling bazaars filled with spices and textiles, and mouthwatering local cuisine, Erbil is a treasure trove for travelers seeking an authentic Middle Eastern experience. Whether you’re wandering through the narrow streets of the old town, exploring the fascinating museums, or venturing into the stunning surrounding landscapes, Erbil has something for everyone.

The covered section of the Citadel Bazaar in Erbil, Iraq | Davidsbeenhere

As you explore Erbil, be prepared to uncover hidden gems and learn about the rich history of the city. From archaeological sites to vibrant markets, this city is a blend of everything curious travelers love.

Meeting a honey vendor in Erbil, Iraq | Davidsbeenhere

I visited Erbil in September 2022 with my guides Jafar and Ali from Bil Weekend . With them, not only did I get to experience Erbil, but I also got my first taste of Iraqi Kurdistan. I only got to spend a day in the city, but my time there was still quite eventful. I highly recommend at least two full days there if you want to experience it properly. These are my favorite things I did in Erbil, Iraq!

See a Livestock Market

My first stop in Erbil was a local livestock market. As you might imagine, it’s a raw and fairly smelly experience, as the vendors there sell everything from chickens, goats, and rabbits, to more exotic creatures like ostriches. Other vendors sell feed for the animals. I even found some offering foods and snacks, including a milky and nutty knafeh , a popular Middle Eastern snack made from sweet cheese and crispy vermicelli noodles.

Experiencing the market was a wild ride. One of my favorite things about experiencing any market is the unexpected. You never know what you’re going to see and encounter next. It always helps when the people are friendly, as they were in Erbil. It made the experience quite enjoyable despite the funky smells!

Visit the Citadel of Erbil

Easily the most notable attraction in Erbil, Iraq is the Citadel of Erbil . Locally known as Qelat, this ancient wonder dates back over 6,000 years and is one of the longest continuously inhabited sites in the world. The imposing structure stands atop a hill formed by generations of people living and rebuilding on it. The citadel played a significant role in the Neo-Assyrian period and was involved in the famous battle between Alexander the Great and Darius III.

The Citadel of Erbil stands high above the city, directly above the bazaar | Davidsbeenhere

In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve and rehabilitate the citadel. It was officially designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014. As a history buff, it pains me that the citadel was closed during my short time in Erbil, but I did get to marvel at it from the outside. When you visit Erbil, just remember that the citadel closes at 7 p.m. every night, so get there before then if you want to explore it!

Explore the Citadel Bazaar in Erbil, Iraq

Although the Citadel of Erbil, Iraq had closed earlier in the evening, the bazaar below it was rife with activity. As I mentioned earlier, I tend to make a beeline to local markets and bazaars when I travel. When I visit a new place, I want to be among the people. I like chatting with them, shaking their hands, and being shoulder-to-shoulder to them with tons of things happening around me. That’s what the Citadel Bazaar is like, and I loved it.

Shoppers visiting shops and vendors of the Citadel Bazaar | Davidsbeenhere

The Citadel Bazaar is alive with food vendors. There are tons of options, so be sure to pace yourself. They sell roasted corn on the cob with a squeeze of lemon, an earthy fava bean dish called bagilla, baklava, dried fruit, and even honey! You can also find vendors selling household goods like mirrors and intricate, colorful rugs. Come with some money—if you’re anything like me, you’ll probably spend a nice amount there!

Enjoy Iraqi Kebabs

I tried a lot of food in the Citadel Bazaar, but my favorite, by far, was the kebabs. These were Kurdish kebabs, which included an assortment of grilled meats I hadn’t tried anywhere else in Iraq. Our massive kebab feast included chicken wings, chicken tikka (boneless chicken), lamb meat, and exotic fare like kidney, lamb testicles, and liver!

An assortment of delicious Kurdish kebabs in Erbil, Iraq | Davidsbeenhere

As much as I love fresh organ meat, the lamb kebabs were my favorite. They were tender and juicy, and practically disintegrated the moment they touched my tongue. The lamb testicle kebabs were unique but surprisingly tasty as well. We also enjoyed some yogurt mixed with ice afterward! Try the Kurdish kebabs when you visit Erbil, Iraq. You won’t regret it!

Get an Iraqi Haircut

If you’ve followed my blog or YouTube channel for a while now, you’ll probably know that I love getting haircuts in different countries. It’s a way for me to unwind and relax, as I work almost constantly and rarely get the chance to do anything for myself.

At Bash Turkish Barber in Erbil, Iraq, I enjoyed a wonderful pampering session, starting with a beard trim and lining. Then, my barber also gave me a face waxing and a full head shave. Then, another guy came in to give me a much-needed massage. He released all of the tension from my head, neck, shoulders, and back!

Experience the Magic of Erbil, Iraq

Whether you find yourself in Erbil to explore its history, cuisine, or Kurdish culture, you will have a wonderful time. I was there for barely 24 hours, but I got to experience a bit of each. It made Erbil a wonderful stop on my Iraqi itinerary, and was a great way to wrap up my trip through the country.

Some of the best kebabs I've ever eaten are in Erbil | Davidsbeenhere

Iraq may not have the best image on the world stage, but as someone who recently visited the country, I can positively say it’s one of the kindest and warmest cultures I’ve ever experienced. Everyone made me feel welcomed and at home. The generosity and hospitality were off the charts. It’s very different from what you often hear about the country. So book a trip to Erbil, Iraq today. I think you’ll be surprised by what you find.

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Mosul, iraq: ultimate travel guide, basra, iraq: ultimate travel guide, nasiriyah, iraq & iraqi marshes: ultimate travel guide.

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Everything You NEED to Know Before Visiting Iraq (+ Iraq Travel Tips)

This post may contain affiliate links. This just means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you for helping them promote their product or service. I don’t endorse any services I don’t personally use or recommend.

Let’s be honest. If you’re an experienced traveler you could conceivably wing every single trip and there’s not a ton you NEED to know before you go. But Iraq is a little different. Unless you want to spend a fortune, miss out on visiting certain historical sights, and suffer A LOT of mishaps along the way. There’s quite a bit you actually do need to know before you go to Iraq.

This blog post is going to be your lifeline in Iraq. Unlike us, you won’t have to learn things the hard way. I’m giving you all my Iraq travel tips and honest advice to help you enjoy your time in the country.

As of April 2022, you do not need to take a PCR test if you are vaccinated against COVID-19.

Visa on Arrival in Iraq

Good News! If you’re an American, Canadian, UK citizen, Australian, Swiss, Russian, Chinese, a New Zealander, South Korean, Japanese, or from an EU country you now qualify for visa on arrival as of 2021!

The cost is officially $77 cold hard cash. But it fluctuates between $75 and $80 depending on the officer.

Iraq operates on both the Iraqi Dinar + the US Dollar. At the airport, you will present your money + passport to the officer to the right of the customs line. He will collect everyone’s documents and then pass them out after he has stamped the visa inside.

50,000 Iraqi Dinar. Iraq travel tips.

Getting from the Airport to Baghdad: Unfortunately, due to security risks, only one kind of shuttle taxi is allowed to pick up from the airport. No Careem/Uber allowed. This means you’ll want to make some friends on your flight. It’s cheapest to split a taxi together into Baghdad since they charge 35,000-45,000 IQD ($23-$30) per vehicle. If you arrive in the daytime (most flights arrive at night) you can also opt to take the airport shuttle to Abbas Ibn Firnas Square for only 8,000 IQD ($5). Be sure to check out my detailed budget travel guide to Iraq if you’re interested in more money-saving tips.

You Must Arrive in Baghdad!

I repeat. If you plan to visit the country of Iraq as a whole (including Iraqi Kurdistan) you must arrive in Baghdad. This is because there are technically two visas in Iraq. The one valid for the entire country that you can only get in Baghdad. Or the one valid for just Iraqi Kurdistan that you will receive if you arrive in Erbil or overland via Turkey. If you get the wrong visa your entire trip through Federal Iraq is kaput. You can leave through whichever land or airport you want. We entered Baghdad + left through Erbil.

Best Time of Year to Visit

Typically, I’m a big proponent of shoulder season to avoid the peak prices + crowds. We visited Turkey’s Turquoise Coast in Spring rather than when the beaches would be jam-packed in Summer. But Iraq simply does not have crowds of tourists.

We visited one of the oldest and most famous historical sites in the country…and were the only people there. For hours.

It’s far more important to visit based on weather conditions and avoid major Muslim holidays.

Do not visit during Ramadan + Eid.

It becomes nearly impossible to find food during the day while people are fasting, you’ll battle crowds of worshippers at the holiest shrines, + be denied entry entirely to some mosques.

crowds inside a mosque during Eid

Do not visit during summer (Late June – Early September) .

Federal Iraq is a desert. Even in May, there were days that the temps reached over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Sandstorms have become increasingly more common during the summer months as well.

Do not visit during the dead of winter (November- Early March) .

Iraqi Kurdistan however is a mountainous landscape with snow-capped peaks well into the summer. If you plan on doing a Kurdistan road trip (which you 100% should) I would avoid the rain + potential snow of winter.

This pretty much leaves Late March – Early June (minus Ramadan) + September – November. It’s a small window. I highly recommend the months of April, May, September, + October.

How Long Should You Visit Iraq?

As long as possible. I had just under 3 weeks in the country. My friend Raman spent more than 3 months.

The perfect relaxed itinerary can be done in just over 2 weeks with proper planning.

But if you have the time (and money) I recommend you stay longer. Iraqi people are absolutely wonderful. You’ll be invited to dinner, to sight-see, and make some genuine friends if you have the time and flexibility in your plans to accept their invitations.

Join the Iraqi Traveller’s Cafe Facebook Group before you go. It’s filled with locals and travelers looking to connect in the country and offer travel advice. It’s the best on-the-ground travel info as well. This is a great resource if you are traveling solo.

Weather can quickly derail all the best-laid plans. Sandstorms make it impossible to leave your hotel for a day or two. It’s best to have a little longer in the country so that you can prepare for at least one delay due to inclement weather.

Iraq Travel Tips for Safety

I am an American woman + I managed to travel throughout Iraq without a hitch. I was traveling with my male partner, however.

That’s not to say it’s not “safe” for a solo female. If you’re experienced enough.

The ziggurat of Ur.

I’m not going to deep dive into all the safety precautions you should take in Iraq here because I wrote an entire guide on safety in Iraq.

Do You Need a Tour Guide?

NEED one? No.

But there were several times during our trip that we chose to work with Bilweekend and did not regret it. Overall, we enjoy independently traveling always. But Iraq has some destinations that are not accessible without a guide. Not “difficult” to access. The roadblocks simply will not let you through. So, it’s worth considering if you’re interested in seeing everything the country has to offer.

Here are the destinations you need a certified guide like Bilweekend to explore…

  • Al-Nuri Mosque in Mosul.
  • Our Lady of Salvation Syriac Catholic cathedral in Mosul.
  • Anywhere else far off the beaten path.

Iraq travel tips. Streets of mosul.

You will also need a guide if you plan on visiting the Iraqi Mesopotamian Marshes overnight .

Here are a few other instances it could be helpful to have a guide…

  • As a solo female traveler. Iraq is a difficult destination for women. And it’s not the norm to have women wandering around alone. I don’t recommend Iraq for solo female travel unless you are very confident in your travel abilities.
  • When visiting the holy city of Karbala. I’m accustomed to typical mosque etiquette. But this shrine takes it to a whole new level. Fortunately, I was hanging out with one of the Bilweekend guides that night and he instructed me on exactly how to enter the mosque. Seriously…I would not have made it in on my own. It was Eid + absolute madness.
  • If you love history! Iraq has as much ancient history as Egypt. It does not however have information readily available for tourists at the sites themselves. Without a guide, you’ll be wandering ruins with no context.

My professional recommendation: If you are ready to visit Iraq, don’t do a full tour. Instead, reach out to Bilweekend (or a friend in Iraqi Travellers Cafe ) and plan short day trips together. This will give you access to exclusive sights while still maintaining your independence.

Where to Get a SIM Card in Iraq

The airport.

Having a SIM card in Iraq is obviously not mandatory but it is exceptionally helpful.

The moment you arrive I suggest getting an Iraqi SIM card. We looked high + low in Baghdad and were never able to locate where you can actually purchase a SIM card + not just the data refill in the city. If you’re in a pickle like us, your hotel can suggest a place.

We did manage to get one on the street in Erbil once we reached Iraqi Kurdistan. It cost us about $20 including 5 GB of data. So, we can confirm that you can manage travel in Federal Iraq without a SIM card. All our hotels had at least decent WiFi.

Currency in Iraq

This is the single most important thing you need to know.

ATMs in Iraq will not work with US banks. BRING ALL YOU NEED IN CASH.

I brought over $2,000 cash with me. I recommend you bring $100 per day you plan to be in the country. You probably won’t use all of it, but this way you won’t have to worry about running out.

standing in the Mesopotamian marshes. Iraq travel tips

If you’re not from the US, there are mixed results on whether ATMs will work for you or not. I recommend bringing cash.

As I mentioned before Iraqi Dinar and USD are used interchangeably in Iraq. This means you can pay in USD and get your change in Dinar.

$1 = 1,500 IQD

Changing Currency in Iraq

If you’re looking to exchange some currency, however, just hit up one of the small streetside stands with photos of money on them. They look sketchy but it’s 100% legit. And if you’re exchanging US to IQD you’ll get an even better rate than the proper exchange. You’ll MAKE money while exchanging it.

This killer rate is only available with USD though. If you are from Europe or Canada I would try to arrive with USD instead.

Apps You Must Have in Iraq

Let’s prep your phone. These are the essential apps you should download to make your stay in Iraq easier.

  • WhatsApp. You will talk with all your guides, friends, and hotels here.
  • Maps.Me. Your best offline map.
  • Careem. The Iraqi Uber.
  • ArabiCalc . Arabic numbers are not like English ones. This will help you decipher the prices of things.
  • Google Translate. Offline or online translation. English is not widely spoken.

Where to Visit in Iraq

Where is safe to visit? What are the can’t miss sights in Iraq? My personal favorite destinations?

You’ll have to pop on over to my complete Iraq itinerary post to find out.

Golden mosque in Karbala. Iraq travel tips.

Federal Iraq vs Iraqi Kurdistan

If you’re planning a trip to Iraq you’ve probably come across these words before. But what exactly is Iraqi Kurdistan?

Iraqi Kurdistan is the northern-most region of Iraq populated by an ethnic minority known as the Kurds. The Kurds inhabit regions of Turkey, Iran, and Syria as well. Legally speaking, Iraqi Kurdistan is a part of Iraq. When you get your Iraqi Visa (in Baghdad) it allows you to enter and travel throughout Iraqi Kurdistan as well.

Kurdistan is a little different than “Federal Iraq” or the Southern area of Iraq. The landscape is mountainous and lush with wildflowers and farming fields, for starters. Rather than barren desert sand. The people are a mix of Christian, Muslim, and Yazidi. The food is a little different too. The local government has much more autonomy over their region’s laws than would be typically allowed. The roads, therefore, are better maintained and the people of Kurdistan have a generally safer existence.

Iraqi Kurdistan travel tips

This means Kurdistan is safer for travelers as well.

I think that you should (+ can) easily visit both regions of Iraq during your visit to the country.

Tips for Traveling In Iraq

All the basic travel rules apply here. Haggle for the best prices, eat the street food, and follow the crowds for the best meals. But there are a few things that are unique to travel in Iraq you should know about.

  • Always ask the price ahead of time. Hotel rooms, taxis, food, tea, etc.
  • Tea is served with a mountain of sugar sitting at the bottom. Stir to your level of sweetness or simply ask for no sugar when you order.
  • Most meals have tea included.
  • Water, however, if served in a bottle is not free. If you drink it, it will be on the bill at the end.
  • There are occasional power outages. Usually, they are quick. No more than 10 minutes or so.
  • Public transportation is in either shared taxis that leave when full (small cars or 4×4 SUVs) or minibusses with no A/C.
  • Friday + Saturday are the weekends in Iraq.
  • Most tourist sights close by 3 PM. You should do all your monuments and historical sights in the morning if possible.
  • Markets however are thriving at night. Be sure to check out the Book Market at Al-Mutanabi street in Baghdad.
  • Nighttime is when the cities come alive. Mosques are just as busy at 3 AM as they are at 6 PM. Get used to late nights.
  • Alcohol is legal in Iraq + you’ll even find a few bars in Christian neighborhoods.
  • Every time you leave your hotel you NEED to bring your passport.
  • The situation in Iraq is always fluid. This means during your time in the country a destination may suddenly become off-limits.
  • As a woman, you need a headscarf. You also should dress very modestly and choose loose fabrics.
  • While many sights are free, most historical sights charge a $17 entrance fee. Babylon + the Ziggurat of Ur are two of them.

Military/Police Roads Blocks + Checkpoints

There are heavily armed and secured roadblocks everywhere. This is why you need your passport on you at all times. Sometimes you’ll encounter them simply walking around a city. When we were walking to dinner in Baghdad at night we were stopped twice by various military and police personnel and had to show our documents.

entering the gates of babylon. Iraq travel tips

They are checking for valid visas and making sure the country remains a secure place to visit. It’s nothing to be concerned about.

It helps to always have a destination in mind to tell them because they often ask where you are going.

These roadblocks also mean that you will never accidentally enter a city you aren’t allowed to be in or visit an unsafe destination. They will turn you around if you are going somewhere not allowed.

Taarof. What is it + How to Navigate it?

This is one of the most interesting cultural customs in Iraq (+ Iran). Basically, it goes like this…

I order a juice (or ride in a taxi, try to buy a souvenir or a falafel sandwich), the salesman gives me my juice and when I try to pay… he gently shakes his head and says it’s free.

This is Taarof.

But the juice isn’t really free. I should pay for my juice. I insist on paying + we banter back and forth a few times with one of us (usually the salesman) giving in.

Occasionally, they will genuinely mean it and insist on you taking your good or service for free. But it’s Iraqi custom to argue it. For at least a little bit. It’s an artform figuring out who really wants you to take the gift and who is just being polite because you’re a guest in the country.

It’s baffling really.

During our time in Iraq, we got free tea, juice, and even a free taxi ride or two. But we also paid for many things they tried to offer us for free and won the politeness argument.

Where to Stay in Iraq

Hotels in Iraq aren’t cheap. We paid about $25 per night on average for two people. Our most expensive was $40 in Baghdad and our least expensive was $17 in Soran. You can see all the places we stayed and recommend in our complete Iraq itinerary .

*Important* Book This Hotel For Arrival

Bilitom Hotel.

Technically speaking, when you arrive in Iraq you are supposed to show a confirmed booking at one of 10 approved tourist hotels.

These hotels are all-around $100 or more per night and have horrible reviews. My customs officer did not ask for proof of booking but I know people who were forced to show proof or pay a $50 airport “booking fee”.

Fortunately, Bilitom Hotel allows anytime cancelation when you book on Booking.com. You can book ahead of time, show confirmation at the airport, and then cancel even on the day of the reservation.

Confirm this on your own booking.com account because obviously, things change. But at the time of writing, Bilitom still allows anytime cancellation and is one of the approved hotels by the Iraqi government.

What you need to know about hotels in Iraq

  • If you are traveling as a male/female couple you should always say you are married. Otherwise, some hotels may deny you a room together. You should not be asked to present your marriage certificate unless you are Iraqi.
  • Most hotels have a squat toilet.
  • Rooms are acceptable for the price. Usually, they come with a free buffet breakfast. But often are a little dingy, dirty, and smell of cigarettes.
  • Room prices are NEGOTIABLE. In some places, just saying you are a member of the Iraqi Travellers Cafe will get you a half-price room. You should expect to spend $17-$40 per night for a two-person room. Single rooms can be about half that. I often felt I was getting quoted a higher price as an American.
  • There is only one hostel in all of Iraq. Dolphin Hostel in Sulaymaniyah.
  • Be sure to ask specifically for their cheapest room if that’s what you want. Several times, they gave us a “family room” because it was big and had a living room included…when we definitely did not need a living room and would have been far happier paying less for a simple bedroom.

Getting Around Iraq

When traveling within a major city like Baghdad you should always use the Careem app. Or walk. Taxis, just like everywhere else in the world are out to overcharge you.

tips for car rental in iraqi kurdistan

There are three ways to travel between cities. You can find all three transport options in the cities Karage or Garaage. For example, if you are in Baghdad trying to get to Karbala, just ask for the Karbala Garage.

Private Taxi.

This is the most expensive option unless you are a group of 3 or more. The benefit to a private taxi is you can leave when you want to and they drop you off at your desired destination so you don’t have to risk purchasing an additional Careem.

Shared Taxi.

If you are a group of 2 or less, this is much cheaper than the full taxi as you will only pay for your seat. Unfortunately, this means you have to wait until the taxi is full and they drop you off at a communal location which usually means you’ll have to book another Careem once you arrive.

This is the cheapest and my personal favorite option. There is no A/C, just open windows, and you’ll have to wait until the van is full.

Public Transport Routes + Prices for Federal Iraq

Let’s take a look at common routes and what they might cost you. Just so you can have a ballpark idea when you arrive to haggle.

Baghdad to Samarra: 15k IQD or $10

Baghdad to Mosul: 25k IQD or $16

Baghdad to Babylon: 10k IQD or $6.50

Baghdad to Basra: Train is available Thurs-Sat only

Karbala to Babylon (Hillah): 6k IQD or $4 + 5k taxi.

Karbala to Najaf: 6k IQD or $4

Karbala to Nasiriyah: 18k or $12

Map of Iraq. Iraq Travel Tips.

These are your federal Iraq destinations. I highly recommend once you arrive in Iraqi Kurdistan (Mosul to Erbil) rent a car. I’ll outline everything you need to know about renting a car in Iraq below. The public transport from Mosul to Erbil should cost you around 5k IQD ($3.50) per person.

Where to Rent a Car in Iraqi Kurdistan

Kurdistan was one of my favorite road trips we have ever taken. We’ve driven the Ring Road in Iceland. We’ve spent a month driving through the Baja Mexico desert. We also spent a full year living in a campervan and visiting over 40 US National Parks.

Read my full Iraqi Kurdistan Road Trip Guide here . It’s filled with Iraq travel tips specifically for the Kurdistan region.

But here are the details you need to know.

  • You don’t need an international driver’s license. Just your home country’s license.
  • You do need to bring your passport. Which meant you CAN NOT rent from Hertz who will insist they keep it as collateral.
  • Rent from Ace Car Rental in Erbil instead. It’s cheaper.
  • You don’t need a 4 x 4. The roads are nearly all paved and all are well maintained.
  • I recommend staying out of Erbil and Sulaymaniyah with the car as much as possible. Cities are always more confusing to drive in.

Iraq Travel Tips About Food

You’re probably going to get real tired of bread, meat, and falafel. Date syrup + fresh-made tahini were some of the only foods I could still enjoy after my time in the country.

iraq tourism 2023

The cuisine doesn’t have a ton of variety but what you do get is phenomenal.

Here are a few things you should note…

  • They use a ton of oil in their food. This often leads to an upset stomach. Bring some Pepto, Tums, and drink the salty yogurt they give you with many meals.
  • Vegans + Vegetarians are gonna have a hard time. Meat + dairy are huge staples in Iraqi cuisine. The areas that don’t a lot of “meat” do a lot of fish. You’ll end up eating pretty much only falafel.
  • Street food is safe + cheap.
  • Not a single restaurant we visited had an English menu. The best method was to point at dishes other people are eating.
  • Fresh pressed juice is an Iraqi favorite. Be sure to get the lime juice, apricot, and raisin during your time in Iraq.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Iraq?

As I already hinted at, Iraq is not the most budget-friendly destination.

In total, my partner and I spent 16 days in the country spending $1,134.82.

Not the worst. This averages out to $70.93 per day with about $23 of that going straight to accommodation. Transport in Iraq varied in cost greatly. But a typical journey between cities costs $5-15 per person. We paid for a few historical entrance fees and an overnight spent in the marshes sets you back around $125 (But it’s totally worth it- read about our experience here).

Food in Iraq also varies in cost. Street food was a bargain typically $1-$2 per meal. Restaurants charged closer to $10 per person typically.

Overall, I would say that budgeting $60 per person per day will be more than enough. We managed to sneak in at $35-ish but better safe than sorry.

I loved getting to know this country. The Iraqi people were some of the most gregarious and giving people we’ve encountered on our travels. I was blown away by mountain and desert landscapes. The bread I consumed is the favorite I’ve ever eaten. I hope this post helps you experience the real Iraq and enjoy your time in this wonderful country. As always feel free to reach out on Instagram if you have any questions.

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iraq tourism 2023

Further Reading...

iraq tourism 2023

Guns, Methane Marshes, & Abou Haidar: Our Night Spent in the Heart of Ancient Mesopotamia

iraq tourism 2023

How to Plan an Epic Iraqi Kurdistan Road Trip (Full Itinerary)

iraq tourism 2023

13 Beautiful + Famous Places in Iraq You MUST Visit

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Guns, Methane Marshes, & Abou Haidar: Our Night Spent in the Heart of Ancient Mesopotamia

Is iraq safe tips from an american woman traveling iraq, beyond_the_bucketlist.

Geena Truman | Travel Blogger

The Crazy Tourist

Home Âť Travel Guides Âť Iraq Âť 15 Best Places to Visit in Iraq

15 Best Places to Visit in Iraq

When you think of Iraq you may well think of smoky battlefields, cruise missiles, and charging tanks. Years of conflict have besieged this country, and while Iraq continues to struggle with political strife, there is much to see here other than just the scars of war. This country is one that is covered in natural beauty, such as the winding waterways of the mighty Tigris and Euphrates rivers. It is often known as the Cradle of Civilization and this is a reference to its ancient Mesopotamian cities that are famed for their innovations in science, writing, literature, medicine, theology and law.

This is also the old home of Babylonia which used to be the stomping ground of Alexander the Great. Mysterious towns like Ur mix with Ottoman relics and famous mosques along the borders and you will also find stunning canyons that carve out large crescents in the fertile plains of Iraqi Kurdistan.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Iraq :

Erbil

The 7,000 year old citadel of Erbil has an illustrious history and can be compared to other greats like Cadiz and Byblos.

The massive castle in the center of the city is the great highlight here, and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Other places not to miss include the Erbil Civilization Museum and the Kurdish Textile Center which are a great way to find out all about the history and culture of this amazing part of the world.

Ziggurat of Ur

Ur is known for its Biblical tales of epic floods and fearsome Babylonian kings, and is also known for one of the most beautiful ancient ruins in the region.

Located in the southern Iraqi deserts, Ur is the home of the Ziggurat, a tall structure with high walls and steep staircases that would have been used in the days of old to worship the Akkadian moon gods.

Certainly this is one of the oddest and most mysterious sights in Iraq.

National Museum

It goes without saying that the city of Baghdad has suffered in recent times due to incessant bombing and attacks by insurgent groups.

To enter the Green Zone of the city you will need to get a special permit, but there is hope that one day soon people will be able to visit this city once more.

When they do, they will find copper bazaars, Assyrian treasures in the National Museum, and monuments such as the Unknown Soldier.

Basra

Many people know the name Basra as it was the location for one of the most pivotal battles that happened during the Iraq War.

If you scratch below the surface of this city, however, and you will find one of the most fascinating destinations in the entire country.

The area is covered in palm forests and the city sits on the Shatt al-Arab River which is lined by the sunny Corniche al-Basra where you can walk along and enjoy the cool evening breeze.

This is also the spot where you will find some of the most famous shrines of Islam’s first imams.

Karbala

This town may not sound like much but it is actually the place where 30 million pilgrims make their way every year.

The area is sacred to Shiite Muslims because of the Imam Husayn Shrine which is the final resting place of the martyr Husayn ibn Ali who died in 680 AD during the Battle of Karbala.

It is also said to be the spot that the archangel Gabriel prescribed as one of the most sacred places on earth.

As such, every year this town sees thousands of devotees arrive for the Ashura Day of Atonement.

Hatra

Sitting in the dusty deserts of western Iraq are the towering columns and ornate temples of Hatra.

As a result, this place is known as one of the most amazing archaeological sites in the entire country.

Here you will get to glimpse wonders of the Parthian age at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, although in recent years some of this area has been destroyed and it remains to be seen how much of Hatra is still intact.

7. Dur-Kurigalzu

Dur-Kurigalzu

The ancient abandoned ruins of Dur-Kurigalzu date back 3,500 years and this part of Iraq used to be the heart of the Cradle of Civilization of southern Mesopotamia.

Close to the mighty Euphrates and Tigris rivers, this was the home of the Kassite kings of old who built the Ziggurat in the 14th century.

This can still be found here in the form of striking stonework and mud-brick walls that rise into high towers above the desert and this would also have been used as a marker for camel caravans en route to Baghdad.

8. Sulaymaniyah

Sulaymaniyah

This is one of the most welcoming and relaxed cities in Iraq and is deemed safe to visit by some foreign governments.

Sulaymaniyah is located on the rugged mountains in northern Iraq and has a cool climate compared with many other cities in the country.

It also has a thriving arts scene and is famous for its wealth of delicious eateries where you can enjoy toothsome spiced kofta as well as biryani and an array of other delicacies.

If you want to take in the oases towns and valleys of the Goyija and Azmer ranges then this is also a great place to base yourself before venturing further afield.

Ishtar gate, Babylon

The name Babylon conjured up images of ancient empires, hanging gardens, and epic battles between Alexander the Great and Persian kings.

It is fair to say that restoration and preservation have rather taken a back seat here in recent times, but you can still take in some of the majestic castles here as well as the vast remains of Homera.

As you explore Babylon, know that you are walking in the footsteps of great emperors of this part of the world, and you can marvel at artifacts such as gracefully crumbling lion statues and imagine how the Hanging Gardens of Babylon would once have looked.

10. Ctesiphon

Ctesiphon

In the middle of the 4th century BC, Ctesiphon was a small Persian settlement on the banks of the limpid Tigris River.

In the 1st century AD however it became the Parthian capital and grew to include the city of Seleucia.

This meant that Ctesiphon became one of the biggest cities in the region by the 7th century and this is where the Arch of Ctesiphon was built.

Also known as the Taq Kasra, this is a Sassanid dome that is one of the largest of its kind in the world and one of the most important archeological sites in the region.

Mosul

Unfortunately the name Mosul has become synonymous with some of the worst destruction in Iraq to date.

For several years the town had been under the control of insurgents and it is now a battleground for the Iraqi military forces.

The hope is that Mosul will soon be liberated and that this city that has over 2,000 years of rich history will once again be a place that people can visit.

There are some truly amazing sights to be seen here including the crumbling ruins of the Umayyad Mosque that dates from 640 AD as well as the cobalt-blue marble work of the Yahya Abdul Kassem Mashad.

Dahuk

The Kurdish town of Dahuk sits in a small dusty valley in northern Iraq and is just a short bus journey from the Turkish border.

This means that this is one of the easiest places to visit in Iraq and perhaps for this reason it also has a reputation for being one of the friendliest and most welcoming.

The town has a wealth of cafes and teahouses and as this is the home of the University of Dahuk there is a strong university town atmosphere here.

There are babbling waterfalls located nearby as well as colorful Kurdish marketplaces where you can buy local products like spices and carpets.

Sadams Palace, Kirkuk

Kirkuk straddles Iraqi Kurdistan and the rest of the country proper and is also famous for its rich oil supply.

This means that this part of Iraq has seen a lot of violence and turmoil, and some of its main sights are all things that allude to its tragic past.

These include its vast, smoldering oil fields located at Baba Gurgur, as well as ancient citadels which are now crumbling from neglect and the scars of prolonged battles.

14. Nineveh

Nineveh

This used to be the Biblical epicenter of the Assyrian Empire and was made famous by the prophet Jonah, making this an important spot in theological history.

Unfortunately much of this city has been ransacked over the years, but you will still find beautiful ruins such as Kuyunjik as well as some ancient gates of the city.

Zakho

Zakho is a border town nestled close to Turkey and for this reason it has a clutch of good restaurants and hotels and is one of the most accessible places in Iraq.

It is also said to be the original spot where Christian missionaries first settled in the country and some of its highlights include the pretty Delal Bridge that stretches over the Little Khabur as well as the haunting ruins of Zakho Castle.

15 Best Places to Visit in Iraq:

  • Dur-Kurigalzu
  • Sulaymaniyah

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Kurdistan Region of Iraq anticipates record tourism numbers in 2023

Kurdistan Region of Iraq anticipates record tourism numbers in 2023

Shafaq News/ The Iraqi Kurdistan Region is known for its natural beauty, rich culture, and historic landmarks.

The Kurdistan Region Tourism Authority recently announced that it expects over seven million tourists to visit the Region's cities this year.

To cater to the expected influx of tourists, the Authority has made preparations for the upcoming Eid al-Fitr holiday, traditionally a busy time for tourism in the Region, where visitors can expect a range of activities and events, including cultural festivals, music concerts, and outdoor adventures.

During the first quarter of 2023, more than two million local and foreign tourists arrived in the Region. The Authority said.

It is worth noting that one of the factors contributing to the rise in tourism is the improved security situation in the Region, which has been stable for several years.

The regional government has also invested heavily in the tourism industry, building new hotels, resorts, and tourist attractions.

Tourists visiting the Kurdistan Region can explore its natural wonders, such as the Zagros Mountains' landscapes and the picturesque shores of Lake Dukan. Visitors can also delve into the Region's rich cultural heritage, which includes traditional Kurdish cuisine, music, and dance.

There are also several historic landmarks to visit, including the ancient city of Erbil, which is believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Other must-see destinations include the Citadel of Salahaddin, the Rawanduz Canyon, and the Lalish Temple, the holiest site in the Yazidi religion.

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Kurdistan received +4 million tourists in 2021 

Kurdistan received +4 million tourists in 2021 

Thousands flock to Erbil for tourism at Mount Korek

Thousands flock to Erbil for tourism at Mount Korek

Tourism enhanced by +500% in Kurdistan in 2021

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Kurdistan is setting the stage for 20 million tourists annually-official says 

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KRI Tourist Numbers up by nearly One Third

iraq tourism 2023

By John Lee.

According to figures from the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), 6,168,000 tourists visited the Kurdistan Region in 2022, an increase of nearly 2 million on the 2021 figure of 4,189,569.

The statistics of tourists by region in 2022 are as follows:

  • Erbil province: 2,752,000 tourists;
  • Sulaimani province: 2,545,156 tourists;
  • Duhok province, 2,340,000 tourists.

The statistics of tourists only for the New Year 2023 are as follows:

  • Erbil: 61,000 tourists;
  • Sulaimani: 64,000 tourists;
  • Duhok: 55,000 tourists.

(Source: KRG)

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Iraq travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: January 29, 2024 09:10 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, iraq - avoid all travel.

Avoid all travel to Iraq due to a continued volatile, unpredictable, and potentially dangerous security situation. If you are in Iraq, consider departing by commercial means if it is safe to do so.

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There is a threat of terrorism in Iraq. Car bombings, vehicle ambushes, drones, mortar and rocket attacks occur weekly across the country. Further attacks are likely, particularly during religious or public holidays. The security situation could worsen with little warning. Attacks have also targeted residential areas to maximize casualties.

Targets could include:

  • government buildings, including schools
  • places of worship
  • airports and other transportation hubs and networks
  • Iraqi security forces
  • large public gatherings
  • public areas and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. The risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time remains high.

Threats to foreigners

The threat of attacks against Western interests and of terrorist attacks in general continues to be real. Foreigners could be prime kidnapping-for-money targets for criminal and terrorist groups.

  • Stay in secure, guarded accommodations
  • Travel with close protection teams at all times, and take all necessary security precautions
  • You should employ a professional security company and follow their advice for the duration of your stay

Border areas

Avoid travelling to border areas. You may encounter serious problems with local authorities when crossing borders or risk of injury or death as a result of ongoing clashes, air strikes or other violent incidents that are common to border areas in Iraq. People suspected of illegally crossing the Iraq-Syria border risk being detained by the Iraqi authorities and charged with terrorism, which can result in capital punishment.

Crime, including carjackings, robberies, kidnapping and corruption, is common. Security conditions get much worse after dark in most areas. Violent conflicts involving organized criminals, street gangs, militants, rival militias and Iraqi security forces pose grave dangers.

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

Demonstrations

Violent demonstrations and attacks are common throughout Iraq.

Clashes between protestors and security forces can occur. Security forces may use tear gas, water cannons, and live ammunition to disperse crowds.

  • Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
  • Follow the instructions of local authorities
  • Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Checkpoints

Security checkpoints are common across the country. An Iraqi police or army uniform is not a guarantee that the wearer is operating in an official capacity.

  • Be very respectful and cooperate fully at security checkpoints
  • Exercise particular caution at ad hoc checkpoints, where murders, kidnappings and robberies frequently occur

Authorities impose curfews on short notice throughout the country. Monitor local media in order to stay informed.

Cellular Network

Telecommunications services are very poor or non-existent in remote areas. Cellular network coverage is widespread in major cities.

The Arba’ een

The Arba’ een is an annual pilgrimage that has the potential to attract a large number of pilgrims each year.

The next event will take place around September 5, 2023.

Before and during the pilgrimage, you can expect:

  • an increased police surveillance
  • a higher volume of traffic
  • street closures
  • transportation delays
  • limited available accommodations

Be alert at all times if you travel to Iraq during the pilgrimage. Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters, particularly in the northern Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Northern Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden and Bab El Mandeb regions. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country. Drivers do not respect traffic laws and speeding and tailgating are common practices.

Travel by road remains highly dangerous. Fatal roadside bombings and attacks on military and civilian vehicles continue to happen. There is also a risk of carjacking and robbery.

Due to the country’s high liability risk, it is difficult to obtain car insurance.

Public Transportation

Busses run irregularly and routes are subject to frequent changes. Rundown transit vehicles are frequently involved in accidents.

Avoid travelling by rail, as the railroad is old and poorly maintained.

The Government of Iraq has begun to take measures to improve the structural integrity of the Mosul Dam.

A dam failure could cause significant flooding and disruptions to essential services from Mosul to Baghdad, along the Tigris River as well as areas adjoining the dam. A failure of the Mosul Dam cannot be predicted. Monitor local media reports and prepare contingency plans. The Government of Canada cannot provide consular services if there is a dam failure.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Iraqi authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Iraq.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

  • Foreign Representatives in Canada
  • Canadian passports

Canadians must have a visa to visit Iraq.

After 10 days in the country, you must register your arrival with the Iraqi Residence Office (Ministry of Interior). After three months in Iraq, you must apply for a one-year residence permit.

You will be subject to additional screening measures prior to being issued an Iraqi visa if your passport contains an Israeli visa or border stamp. This does not apply to Canadians travelling to the region of Kurdistan.  

Kurdistan Region of Iraq

You can obtain a 30-day visa for Kurdistan upon arrival at both Erbil International Airport and Sulaymaniyah International Airport. If you plan to travel outside of Kurdistan to other regions of Iraq, you must obtain an Iraqi visa prior to travelling to Iraq. If you are leaving via the airport in Baghdad without a visa, you may be required to pay a penalty fee at departure. 

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

  • Global Measles Notice - 31 August, 2023
  • COVID-19 and International Travel - 31 August, 2023

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

  • There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

  • Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

  • Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

  •  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
  •  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
  •  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

  • Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
  • Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
  • Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.

To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions .

Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:

  • visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
  • visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring

Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

  • Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
  • Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
  • Minimize exposure to insects
  • Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is a viral disease that can cause fever, pain and bleeding under the skin.  In some cases, it can be fatal.  It spreads to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, or from the bite of an infected tick.  Risk is generally low for most travellers.  Protect yourself from tick bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock.  There is no vaccine available for Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever.

Cutaneous and mucosal   leishmaniasis   causes skin sores and ulcers. It is caused by a parasite spread through the bite of a female sandfly.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from sandfly bites, which typically occur after sunset in rural and forested areas and in some urban centres. There is no vaccine or medication to protect against leishmaniasis.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

  • visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
  • working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
  • hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
  • working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
  • working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

  •   washing your hands often
  • avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
  • avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is limited in availability. Medical facilities in Iraq are scarce. You will likely need medical evacuation in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

The work week is from Sunday to Thursday.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long detention or even the death penalty.

A new law is prohibiting importing, manufacturing, and selling alcoholic beverages. It is being challenged in court, and its application at ports of entry and inside Iraq remains unclear. You should nonetheless avoid travelling to Iraq with alcohol or risk heavy fines if convicted.

Do not drink alcohol outside licensed facilities. There is a zero tolerance policy regarding drinking and driving.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Although the laws of Iraq do not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex, homosexuality is not socially tolerated.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Iraq.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Iraq.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Iraq, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

According to Iraqi law, the child of a male Iraqi national is considered an Iraqi national. Even if the name of the child is written in the mother’s foreign passport, Iraqi authorities may consider the child an Iraqi national and the child will require the father’s permission to travel.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Iraq.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Iraq by an abducting parent:

  • act as quickly as you can
  • consult a lawyer in Canada and in Iraq to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
  • report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

  • International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
  • Travelling with children
  • Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
  • Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Religious preaching is forbidden.

Islamic practices and beliefs form the basis of the country’s customs, laws and regulations.

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

  • dress conservatively
  • behave discreetly
  • respect religious and social traditions

In 2024, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 10.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

You must carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Identification

You must carry photo identification as well as a legally certified copy of your visa and registration at all times. Keep a photocopy of your passport, visa and registration in a safe place, in case they are lost or confiscated.

Customs authorities strictly enforce regulations concerning the import or export of pieces of art and antiquities. It is strictly forbidden to take antiquities, archeological finds or antique carpets out of Iraq.

There are strict laws regarding:

  • purchase and exportation of antiquities and objects of special significance to the country's cultural heritage
  • access, excavation, research, filming and photographing of archeological sites

To avoid any difficulties, make sure you:

  • obtain and carry the required legal paperwork to purchase or export antiquities
  • have the proper permit to conduct activities related to cultural heritage and archeological sites

Failure to comply can lead to severe punishment, including heavy fines, jail sentences and possibly the death penalty.

The currency is the Iraqi dinar (IQD). The economy is primarily cash-based. U.S. dollars are accepted. There are very few ATM’s.

You cannot leave Iraq with more than US$10,000 in cash, unless you declared the amount when you entered the country.

Dust storms

The weather is very dry and hot from May to October. Sand storms and dust storms may occur any time, particularly during the summer months.

Sand-laden winds can blow at high speeds for days, creating difficult driving conditions. Poor visibility can also affect flights. These storms can also cause respiratory problems, which can be fatal for some individuals.

During a storm:

  • stay indoors
  • keep windows closed
  • follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel
  • monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

  • Avoid the affected areas
  • Keep informed of regional weather forecasts

Local services

There is no centralized number to reach emergency services. Research the contact information for local police and medical facilities, and carry it with you.

Consular assistance

The ability of the Embassy of Canada in Baghdad to provide consular and other support throughout Iraq is severely limited. Until further notice, contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa for emergency consular assistance.

Kurdistan, Iraq

For emergency consular assistance, you may contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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iraq tourism 2023

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iraq tourism 2023

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) advises against all travel to all provinces of Iraq except the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, and against all but essential travel to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.

Protests regularly take place in and around the International Zone in Baghdad. Protests can, and sometimes do, escalate into violence. You should avoid any rallies, marches or processions, and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Iraq remains subject to regional tensions. A number of areas of Iraq remain subject to sporadic attack by artillery, drones and rockets. See Political and security situation

A threat to Western interests remains, including to UK citizens. You should remain vigilant, have robust security arrangements and contingency plans in place, keeping these under review, and keep up to date with the latest developments, including via the media and this travel advice.

Due to the security situation and the advice against all travel to all provinces of Iraq except the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, and against all but essential travel to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, British nationals are reminded that consular support in all of Iraq is severely limited. The security situation across Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region of Iraq could deteriorate quickly and without warning. You should not assume that, in the event of a further deterioration in the security situation, assistance to leave Iraq, including from the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, will be available.

You may be eligible to obtain a visit visa on arrival in federal Iraq. Check visa requirements with the Iraqi Embassy in London, or the Iraqi Consulate in Manchester before you travel. In the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) you may apply for an e-visa online before arrival on the e-visa portal of the Kurdistan Region Government . It is also possible to obtain a visa on arrival. Both types of visa are valid for travel in the KRI only. See Visas

The Iraqi Prime Minister announced the territorial defeat of Daesh in Iraq on 9 December 2017. However, terrorists are still very likely to try to carry out attacks in Iraq. You should remain vigilant and monitor media reports. See Terrorism

There’s also a high threat of kidnapping throughout the country, including from both Daesh and other terrorist and militant groups, which can be motivated by criminality or terrorism. You should review your security arrangements regularly and consider carefully any travel plans around the country. See Kidnap

Since October 2023 drone and rocket attacks directed at US military installations have occurred across Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Erbil International Airport has experienced temporary closures for brief periods with operations resuming after a few hours. On 15 January, Iranian missile strikes targeted the north-eastern edge of Erbil city, near the areas of Kasnazan and Mulla Omar, killing and injuring civilians.

Turkey conducts regular military action in the north of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) and, occasionally, further south. There is particular risk in mountainous areas, especially around Qandil, Makhmur, and near the border with Turkey. Iran has claimed responsibility for several recent attacks by ballistic rockets and drones, including in Erbil, Koya and surrounding areas. Crossing points along the Iraq-Turkey border may also be affected. See  Kurdistan Region

If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the  nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission . Consular support is severely limited in Iraq. The British Embassy in Baghdad and the British Consulate-General in Erbil operate a limited consular service by appointment only. The Embassy and Consulate-General’s ability to visit locations across Iraq is limited and travel to unsecure areas to deliver consular services may not be possible.

As of 26 October, some UK Government staff have been temporarily withdrawn from the British Embassy Baghdad due to risks of a deterioration in the security situation. The Embassy will continue essential work, including consular support, which remains extremely limited in Iraq.

Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel.

Before you travel, check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for Iraq’s current entry restrictions and requirements. These may change with little warning. Monitor this advice for the latest updates and stay in contact with your travel provider.

If you plan to pass through another country to return to the UK, check the travel advice for the country you’re transiting.

It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides appropriate cover. See the FCDO ’s guidance on foreign travel insurance .

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Iraq Economic Impact Report 2023

Report details.

This latest report reveals the importance of T&T to this economy in granular detail across many metrics. The report’s features include: ‍ • Absolute and relative contributions of T&T to GDP and employment, international and domestic spending • Data on leisure and business spending, capital investment, government spending and outbound spending • Tables ranking the economy against other competing destinations and benchmarked against the world and regional average across various metrics • Charts comparing data across every year from 2013 to 2023 • Detailed data tables for the years 2017-2022, plus forecasts for 2023 and the decade to 2033 Purchase of this report also provides access to two supporting papers: Methodology and Data Sources and Estimation Techniques.

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Iraq tourism forum

AL MASSAL FOR TRAILEMG & TOURISM

About Iraq Tourism Forum 2022

Tourism as a concept defines as one activity where a person can move from a certain place to another where he has never been before, due to different purposes such as political, cultural, therapeutic, religious and recreational interests. According to that fact, arises such kind of activity like a forum for gathering the tourism, tourism companies and travel agents in such atmosphere to exchange experiences, ideas and cultures. In the same time it is a marketing event which enables the people in charge to present and develop their activities and goals in the tourism field. Al- Masal Company for Tourism and Travel from Baghdad –Iraq has the honor during the past four years to successfully organize the Iraqi Tourism Forum 2016, 2017, 2018,2019 and now the 2022IQTF. Due to AL- Masal accumulated experiences of serious, hard and fruitful works the new forum will be focused on: 1. Discussing mutual cooperation topics between participated tourism companies from different countries. 2. Exchanging ideas, rehabilitated and training programs to improve the tourism services and the current Iraqi tourism situation. 3. Discussing the new tourism projects in Iraq by reviewing best steps to achieve and invest it. 4. Building up new and strong relationships among tourism companies, airlines companies, hotels and booking systems for their association with economic, commercial and political sectors. 2016-2017-2018-2019-2022

About The Organizer

Al Massal Company classfied as one of the leader companies in the feld of travel and tourism in Iraq.

Company was established in 2006 and offcially obtained a work permit from the Ministry of Iraqi tourism under the number (473). The company is specialized in the felds of travel, religious and historical tourism , health and recreational, with a pioneering experience in this feld. Company started its work by promoting tourism to the regions of Kurdistan Iraq, Syria, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. The company has expanded its tourism activity to a number of countrieslikeAsian, European and Arabic countries.

  • www.almassal.iq
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ABOUT Aknaf Al Sawary

World Best Travel Agency Company Since 2017.

Aknaf Al Sawary travel agency allows you to explore the adventure in IRAQ. IRAN and SYRIA. Leading as one of the most reliable and growing Travel Agencies. We offer complete arrangements from staying in a hotel to visa issuance. Composing an experience to explore the hidden treasures around the ancient cities

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Amazing places to visit in Iraq

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Iraq 8 Days Tour you will be able to visit most of the Iraq highlight places.

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Top Reviews for Aknaf Alsawary.

We have an absolutely great experience with AknafAlsawary Travel Agency. Besides the amazing historical places of Mesopopotamia that were our goals we admired the Iraqi places and culture: monuments, mosques and also we met amazing local people and enjoed Iraqi traditional food. Our guide and driver (both Ali  ) offered us an absolutely safety confidence and answers to all our questions and requirements. Thank you once again for the amazing and excellent trip!

Natasha From USA

I took a 7 day Southern Iraq tour, visiting all the famous places like Samarra, Bagdad, Babylon, Uruk, Ur, marshes, Karbala or Najaf. Great country, great people, incredible history and no issues with safety. My recommendation. They are a lot of fun to be around and possess a wealth of knowledge and will go out of their way to help you in any way. Highly recommend this company and you should book with confidence.

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Phil from usa.

Ahmed (Guide) and Haji (Driver and Jack of All Trades) took us on an incredible tour of Southern Iraq, from Baghdad to Basra over 8 days. We were a little nervous before reaching Baghdad, but the guys made us feel safe and were always looking out for us. They are a lot of fun to be around and possess a wealth of knowledge and will go out of their way to help you in any way. Highly recommend this company and you should book with confidence.

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Aknaf Al Sawary travel agency allows you to explore the adventure in IRAQ. IRAN and SYRIA. Leading as one of the most reliable and growing Travel Agencies. We offer complete arrangements from staying in a hotel to visa issuance. Composing an experience to explore the hidden treasures around the ancient cities.

We started as a small travel agency which has now developed into one of the well-known UAE travel agencies. We look forward to our quest to inspire people by allowing them to explore the valuable antiques of famous places around the Globe where every building and market holds a story.

OUR MISSION:

Our versatile and enthusiastic team believes in converting every journey into knowledge and inspiration. Our experienced guides allow you to explore and broaden your insights into ancient places.

When we started as a small travel agency, we always idealized being a part of worldwide renowned travel agencies, which we fulfilled by exhibiting trips to Iraq, Iran, and Persia.

Aknaf Al Sawary promises to handle all your personal and corporate travels. While providing complete guidelines in planning your itinerary, offering all hotel and travel facilities.

Destinations we cover:

  •   Trip to Iraq:

Our trip to Iraq covers all major cities and their historical places, including Baghdad, and Karbala, from Mesopotamian marshes to Iraqi Kurdistan. The journey to Iraq includes numerous reasons to plan it, including jaw-dropping shrines, the vibrant streets of Baghdad, and surprisingly rich native cuisine. Undoubtedly Iraq is a country of experience.

  •   Trip to Iran :

 In Iran, we visit famous cities, including Persia. After landing in Tehran, we further start our tour toward Isfahan Boroujerdis’ historical mansion. Then moving towards Yadz and sightseeing in Bishapour with a lot more activities. In Tehran, our expert guides manage all your slots while looking for the main highlights, including the Golestan Palace, the archeological section, and the crown jewels museum, all of which are ancient treasures remaining in today’s era.

  •   Trip to Syria:

We also provide a trip to Syria, where we land in Damascus city visiting the Umayyad Mosque. Moving further to the town of Saidnaya, known as the Middle East’s exclusive architectural city. Other attractions include Palmyra, the most fantastic city where Baalshamin’s Stone is the central location to visit.

Services we provide

Flights tickets and visa:.

Our expert staff organizes and arranges complete traveling documents. Not only to assist our people but also to make ticket arrangements.

Hotel booking:

We provide complete booking packages with many premium benefits, making your stay more comfortable and impressive. We offer a wide variation from the lowest prices to suits you would love.

Extra benefits:

We accommodate you with all charges to pay while visiting the itinerary mentioned in the tour. Offering you affordable prices for all festivals and commemorations.

Transportation:

Our guides are experts in driving and make your journey safe and secure. We also offer air conditioner transportation.

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GlobalData

The most expensive airport construction projects in 2023

I n total, 117 airport construction projects broke ground over the last year, according to GlobalData’s construction project database. These projects have a combined value of over $51bn.

This number reflects a healthy airport construction sector, with growth of roughly 68% in the last year, compared to the 71 projects that cost a total of ÂŁ50bn in 2022. The number of airport construction projects to break ground in 2023 is almost back to 2021 levels when 159 projects commenced at a total cost of roughly $110bn.

Through 2023, almost half (49.6%) of all airport construction projects to enter the execution phase ground were projects involving airport terminals – either expansions or new developments – totalling over $27.6bn of combined investment. 

The second most popular type of construction project to break ground in the airport sector was airport runway projects, with 18.8% of the total airport construction projects to break ground in the last year either being airport runway extensions, renewals, or new developments – with a combined investment of $14.3bn. 

Of the 10 most expensive civil airport projects that entered the execution phase in 2023, half are located in Asia, proving the rapid growth of aviation in the region. However, 40% of projects to break ground last year, including the most expensive, were in Europe. The total cost of all ten was a whopping $24.7bn, almost half (48%) of the combined investment globally in the last year.

So, here is the list of the top 10 most expensive civil airport construction projects that broke ground in 2023, according to the GlobalData construction database.

10. Chinchero International Airport, Peru: $427m

Chinchero International Airport is a new international airport under construction by The Ministry of Transport and Communications of Peru in the town of Chinchero, 30km (18.6 miles) northwest of the city of Cusco, PerĂş. It is planned to replace the existing Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco. Cusco is one of the main tourist destinations in not only Peru but also South America as a whole.

The new airport project includes the construction of a passenger terminal on 46,900 square metres (11.6 acres), a 45m (148 feet) wide, 4km (2.5-mile) runway, an ATC tower, taxiways, and parking facilities.

Chinchero International Airport, which is at an altitude will be 3,720 metres (12,200 feet) above sea level, will be able to operate during nighttime, with its runway allowing for B757 aircraft landings. It is planned to serve an annual capacity of five million passengers.

After a lengthy process and several delays, construction on the project, which will generate more than 5,000 jobs, commenced in Q3 2023. The airport is scheduled to open in 2026.

9. Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport Terminal 4, China: $500m

Shenzhen Airport Group (SAG) is constructing the new Terminal 4 (T4) at the Bao'an International Airport in Shenzhen, China. The airport, which serves the Pearl River Delta, is located 32km (20 miles) northwest of Shenzhen city centre.

The $500m project aims to increase air traffic handling capabilities to provide better facilities, giving the capacity to handle around 31 million passengers – 24 million international and 7 million domestic – annually.

The construction of the T4 terminal with a 400,000 square metre (98.8 acre) floor area, 60 new stands, connections to the mid-field satellite, a luggage claim hall, security checkpoints, and the installation of elevators and equipment.

Construction on the constrained site of the new T4 passenger terminal, under which a rail interchange station is located, commenced in February 2023 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

8. Manchester Airport Expansion – The Avenue, UK: $544m

Manchester Airports Group (MAG), is constructing new retail and commercial units at Manchester Airport, UK. The commercial zone, dubbed ‘The Avenue’, is located in Terminal 2 (T2) of the third busiest airport in the UK. T2 is currently undergoing a £1.3bn ($1.6bn) upgrade, which will double the size of the passenger terminal.

The Avenue project involves the expansion of airport facilities at T2, including 16 new retail stores and 11 food and beverage outlets, all of which will open onto an airfield view. It also includes a new champagne bar as its centrepiece, which will sit alongside artisan cafes, a brasserie, and a market hall-style food court.   

The ÂŁ440m ($544) development also includes a business lounge and the installation of safety and security systems. According to MAG, more than 500 jobs will be created in the construction phase of the project, and 16,400 extra jobs will be generated from the expansion by 2040.

Mace Consultant has been appointed as a main contractor for The Avenue, which commenced construction towards the end of 2023 and is expected to be completed at the start of 2027.

7. Palma de Mallorca Airport Redevelopment, Spain: $639m

Spanish airport operator Aeropuertos EspaĂąoles y NavegaciĂłn AĂŠrea (AENA) is undertaking the redevelopment of Palma de Mallorca Airport, also known as Son Sant Joan Mallorca Airport, in the Balearic Islands, Spain. The airport is located 8km (5.0 miles) east of Palma on the island of Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands, roughly 200km (124 miles) east of mainland Spain in the Mediterranean Sea.

The €559m ($639m) project, which will reportedly create 1,000 new jobs, was planned in order to increase the operational capacity of the airport, reduce delays and traffic congestion, and improve user safety.

The project includes redeveloping the Module A billing and arrivals terminal building with five new gateways, the Module D building with three new gateways, and the demolition of the Aena III building.

It also includes building two aircraft parking platforms on the west and east docks, a taxiway, a new connecting corridor between the processing building and three boarding bridges, new commercial facilities, and automated baggage handling systems.

A new car parking facility for 1,712 cars will be built, and new electrical, fire and air conditioning systems, security controls, and ventilation systems will be installed.

Acciona Construction has been appointed as the construction contractor, and WSP Global is the project management services contractor. WSP’s contract includes the improvement, renovation, and reorganisation of the airport's processor building, docks A, C, D, and the parking and access areas.

Construction began in October 2023, and the project is expected to be completed in early 2026.

6. Nasiriyah International Airport, Iraq: $667m

The Dhi Qar Investment Commission (DIC) is developing a part of Imam Ali Airbase, commonly referred to as "Tallil”, into the civil airport in Nasiriya, Iraq. The civilian airport, dubbed Nasiriyah International Airport, is being planned to handle a capacity of 750,000 passengers annually in its first phase.

The $667m project involves the construction of a new passenger terminal building with a potential capacity of up to one million passengers per year, a passenger hall, and the construction of 25km (15.5 miles) of airport connection lines.

The project also includes building new runways, a 5,000 square metre (5,382 square feet) cargo building, aircraft stands, air traffic control tower, shops, and installation of alarms, elevators, and safety and security systems.

Interestingly, Tallil contains the site of the ancient Babylonian city of Ur within its boundaries, one of the places identified as Ur of the Chaldees and the birthplace of the common Hebrew patriarch of the Abrahamic religions, Abraham.

Construction on the airport, located 23km (14 miles) southwest of Nasiriyah, Iraq, was contracted to the China State Construction Engineering Corporation in September 2019. Construction work began in February 2023 and is expected to be completed by mid-2025.

5. Haneda Airport Terminal 2 North Satellite Building, Japan: $800m

The Japan Airport Terminal Company (JAT) is expanding the Terminal 2 north satellite building at Haneda Airport in Tokyo, Japan.

The project involves the expansion of the Terminal 2 North Satellite Building, with a new footprint of 322,000 square metres (198 acres). It includes the expansion of the main North Satellite Building connection to 21,000 square metres (5.2 acres), the extension of the North Building to 19,000 square metres (4.7 acres), and the renovation of the North Satellite to 11,000 square metres (2.7 acres).

The expansion also includes the construction of the northern satellite three floors above ground, the north extension building six floors above ground, new entrances and exits, CIQ facilities, duty-free shops, check-in counters, restaurants, waiting areas, a baggage claim area, parking facilities, and the installation of elevators and safety and security systems.

Construction work, contracted to the Taisei Corporation, began in April 2023 and is scheduled to be completed by February 2025.

4. Imam Khomeini International Airport City, Iran: $4bn

The Imam Khomeini International Airport City project is a $4bn urban redevelopment project attached to Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA), located 30km (19 miles) south of Tehran. It does, however, also include additional facilities for IKA in its full plan.

The project involves the construction of residential facilities, townships, and related infrastructure to create an Airport City as well as a free trade and special economic zone for IKA. The project includes a new public transit system in the form of a subway – specifically new stations and lines connecting the existing Shahed metro station, the Aftab township, IKA, and the planned city of Parand City.

The Airport City project also includes the construction of a new passenger terminal, new cargo facilities, a new air traffic control tower, and other infrastructure facilities at IKA, aimed to increase the airport’s capacity to 60 million passengers per year.

The project started construction following a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Terminal 2 building in December 2023, with the entire Imam Khomeini International Airport City project expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

3. Long Thanh International Airport Terminal 3, Vietnam: $4bn

Long Thanh International Airport is a new airport being built in Dong Nai, Vietnam. The airport is located 40km (25 miles) east of Ho Chi Minh City, the country’s most populous city. The cost of the project, which is split into three phases, totals $14.1bn, with a footprint of 55.8 square kilometres (13,789 acres).

The airport will replace the existing Tan Son Nhat International Airport, which handles two-thirds of all international arrivals in Vietnam. Long Thanh International is projected to have the capacity to handle 100 million passengers per year, with a total of five terminal buildings when the entire project is completed.

The first phase of the project broke ground back in 2021, with the second phase commencing in September 2023 following a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the airport’s Terminal 3 (T3) passenger terminal building. T3 is expected to manage a capacity of 25 million travellers per year, with the building comprised of a basement and four above-ground floors on a 112,500 square metre (28 acre) footprint.

T3 includes 90 check-in counters, 20 self-service bag-drop counters, and 42 self-check-in kiosks. There are 27 aircraft boarding gates (including 13 jet bridges and 14 bus gates), 6 baggage processing islands for departure and 10 for arrivals, and 25 passenger security checkpoints.

The second phase of the Long Thanh International Airport project, which commenced with the groundbreaking for T3, is expected to be completed in 2026.

2. John F. Kennedy International Airport Terminal 6, US: $4.2bn

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) is undertaking the construction of Terminal 6 (T6), a new terminal that will connect to Terminal 5 at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York, US. The $4.2bn new T6 development will replace the existing Terminal 7, with Terminal 7 planned for demolition after the first phase of construction of T6 is completed.

The T6 project involves a total footprint of 111,483 square metres (27.5 acres) for the terminal building, housing ten gates for domestic and international flights. It includes the construction of 6,875 square metres (1.7 acres) of retail space and 2,787 square metres (30,000 square feet) of airline lounges.

The project also includes building 9,290 square metres (2.3 acres) of commercial dining space, as well as a new check-in hall, access roads, recreational spaces, and the installation of new safety and security systems.

The new terminal will be financed and operated by JetBlue Airways and JFK Millennium Partners. Construction commenced in February 2023 following a groundbreaking ceremony, with the first few gates expected to be completed by 2026 and the entire terminal estimated to be completed in 2028.

1. Central Communication Port, Poland: $8.9bn

The Solidarity Transport Hub, otherwise known as the Central Communication Port, is a Polish megaproject, building a new airport from scratch 40km (25 miles) southwest of Warsaw.

The PLN35bn ($8.9bn) programme includes the construction of the new airport, including two runways, terminal buildings, commercial and retail units, as well as parking facilities and connecting roads.

The megaproject also includes building a new airport city, modernising 2,400km (1,491 miles) of existing railway lines and constructing 1,800km (1,119 miles) of new high-speed railway lines – consisting of 10 major corridors – as well as building a new controlled-access highway network connection.

The project involves the construction of a PLN19.3bn ($4.8bn) airport with a planned initial capacity of 45 million passengers per year after the initial phase, rising to 100 million passengers after full completion of the project on 30 square km (7,413 acres) of land located between Warsaw and Lodz.

Construction on the airport, which will act as a hub for LOT Polish Airlines, commenced in October 2023, with the first phase of the airport and a few sections of the railway lines anticipated to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2027.

"The most expensive airport construction projects in 2023" was originally created and published by Airport Technology , a GlobalData owned brand.

The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.

The most expensive airport construction projects in 2023

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