Iraq

Iraq, located in the heart of ancient Mesopotamia between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, is a country with an incredibly rich history stretching back millennia. This land, known as the 'cradle of civilisation', gave the world writing, laws, and the great cities of antiquity. The nation's capital, Baghdad, is itself a city with a centuries-old history, once one of the most important centres of science, culture, and trade in the Islamic world during its Golden Age.

A journey to Iraq is a unique opportunity to connect with the origins of human history. The country preserves the ruins of legendary cities and archaeological sites that testify to the greatness of the Sumerian, Akkadian, Babylonian, and Assyrian civilisations. Among its many historical treasures, the Erbil Citadel stands out as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Iraq's cultural heritage is also evident in its traditions, art, and the warm hospitality of its people. Visitors are advised to dress modestly, particularly when entering mosques and other religious places, as a sign of respect for local customs.

Beyond its rich historical past, Iraq offers diverse landscapes, from fertile river valleys to arid deserts and mountain ranges in the north, particularly around the city of Erbil. The country's climate is predominantly continental, with hot summers and mild winters. For travellers from the UAE, Iraq presents a familiar cultural landscape; halal food is widely available and prayer facilities are accessible throughout the country. Today, Iraq is a destination for travellers seeking a deep immersion in history and culture, discovering a nation that, despite past challenges, carefully preserves its priceless heritage and is gradually revealing its tourism potential.

The national currency of Iraq is the Iraqi dinar, which has the international code IQD. Banknotes are in circulation in various denominations, often featuring images of significant historical monuments, the country's cultural symbols, and portraits of prominent figures. Coins are also in use, but banknotes are more common for everyday transactions.

It is recommended to exchange foreign currency for Iraqi dinars at official banks or licensed exchange offices, which can be found in major cities like Baghdad and at international airports. For travellers from the UAE, major currencies such as the US Dollar are widely accepted for exchange, and some exchange offices also handle the UAE Dirham. You should avoid using street money changers, as this carries the risk of receiving counterfeit notes or an unfavourable exchange rate. The use of credit and debit cards in Iraq is not yet widespread, although they may be accepted in large international hotels and some shops in the capital. For most purchases, especially outside of major cities, it is preferable to carry a sufficient amount of cash.

To enter Iraq, both citizens and residents of the UAE must obtain a visa. Unlike some countries, Iraq does not offer visa-free access to UAE passport holders. The most common procedure is to apply for a visa in advance through the Embassy or Consulate of Iraq. However, for travellers arriving at Al Najaf International Airport or Basra International Airport, a visa on arrival may be available.

Regardless of the visa type, you will need a passport with at least six months of validity from your planned date of entry. It is also advisable to have proof of your travel arrangements, such as return flight tickets, hotel booking confirmations, and valid medical insurance for your trip. As visa regulations can change, it is strongly recommended to confirm the latest requirements with the official Iraqi embassy or an accredited visa centre before your journey.

The country is in the UTC+3 time zone, also known as Arabian Standard Time (AST). This means Iraq is one hour behind the UAE, which operates on Gulf Standard Time (UTC+4). Therefore, the time in Baghdad and other Iraqi cities will be consistent, which simplifies planning your movements and activities. Iraq does not observe daylight saving time, so the clocks do not change throughout the year.

When planning a trip to Iraq, most travellers from the UAE will find flying to be the most convenient option. The country has several international airports, with Baghdad International Airport (BGW) in the capital, Baghdad, serving as the main hub for arrivals. Numerous direct and connecting flights to Iraq are available from the UAE and other Middle Eastern countries. Airlines such as Emirates, flydubai, and Air Arabia offer regular services to key Iraqi cities. For instance, Emirates operates flights to both Baghdad and Basra. Air Arabia provides routes to Baghdad, Basra and Erbil from Sharjah. Other major airports receiving international flights are located in cities like Erbil and Basra.

While Iraq's land borders with several neighbouring countries are open for crossing by car or bus, these routes are generally less popular with international tourists and can require thorough preparation. It is essential to check the current cross-border regulations before attempting overland travel, as the security situation can be volatile and border crossings may close without notice. Sea travel to Iraq is very limited and is not a common method for tourist journeys. Regardless of your chosen mode of transport, it is highly recommended to book your tickets and plan your itinerary well in advance, especially if your trip coincides with peak travel seasons or major Islamic holidays such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.

For your reference, here is a summary of the main airports:

Iraq is a country with a rich history, where every city holds traces of ancient civilisations and unique cultural traditions. A journey through Iraq offers an opportunity to discover the cradle of civilisation, explore ancient ruins, and experience the atmosphere of oriental bazaars. The country's capital, Baghdad, is a significant historical centre in its own right, but equally amazing places await you beyond its borders.

Among the country's most notable cities is Erbil, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, whose majestic citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For those interested in religious history and pilgrimage, key destinations include Najaf, famous for the tomb of Imam Ali, and Karbala, a holy city for Shia Muslims. The cultural centre of Iraqi Kurdistan is considered to be Sulaymaniyah, which attracts visitors with its modern atmosphere, museums, and picturesque surroundings. These cities are just a small part of what Iraq has to offer the inquisitive traveller.

Iraq is a country with a history spanning millennia, where ancient wonders coexist with modern landmarks. Travellers will discover unique architectural monuments, religious shrines, and recreational spots that are sure to surprise and inspire.

One of the most impressive historical sites is the Erbil Citadel. This ancient city on a hill, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world. A walk through its narrow alleyways and a view of its ancient walls will transport you back in time, allowing you to experience living history.

For those interested in religious and cultural sites, a significant place to visit is the Great Mosque of al-Sahla. Located in nearby Kufa, this mosque attracts pilgrims and tourists with its majestic architecture and profound spiritual atmosphere, serving as an important centre in the Islamic world. Visitors are advised to dress modestly, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered; women are also requested to cover their hair.

If you are looking for a place for a family outing or simply want to have some fun, check out Chavi Land in Sulaymaniyah. This popular amusement park offers a wide selection of rides for all ages, cosy green areas for picnics, and a variety of cafes with halal food options, guaranteeing a memorable experience.

Nature lovers and those seeking peaceful relaxation will certainly enjoy Azadi Park, located in the city of Dohuk. It is a true green oasis where you can enjoy strolls along well-maintained pathways, relax by the water, or have a picnic. The park also offers playgrounds for children and is a wonderful place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

When planning a trip to Iraq, it's important to consider its predominantly desert climate, with hot summers and mild winters. From a weather perspective, the best times to visit are during the spring months (March–April) and autumn (October–November). During these periods, daytime temperatures are moderate and the evenings are pleasantly cool, making it ideal for sightseeing and travelling around the country. However, it is critically important to be aware that Iraq hosts major religious pilgrimages, such as Arbaeen in Karbala, which attract millions of people. During these events, accommodation becomes scarce, prices for services increase, and movement within and around the host cities can be significantly restricted. Therefore, even if the weather is optimal during these months, it is advisable to check the dates of major religious events in advance and plan your trip accordingly, especially if you are not a pilgrim. Outside of these mass pilgrimage periods, the flow of tourists in Iraq is generally low.

Summer in Iraq, from June to September, is characterised by extremely high temperatures that often exceed +40°C and can reach up to +50°C in some regions. This makes daytime excursions very challenging. Winter (December–February) is mild in the central and southern regions, but it can be cold and snowy in the north, particularly in the mountainous Kurdistan region. These periods can be considered the 'low season' for most tourist activities, and accommodation prices may be lower, except during local events. Given the country's size, the climate can vary: the northern mountainous areas are generally cooler than the southern desert regions. Before your trip, it is always recommended to check the weather forecast for the specific regions you plan to visit, as well as the calendar of significant local events.

Iraq is a country with a rich history and deep cultural traditions, an understanding of which will help you to feel more comfortable and show respect to the local people. Greetings play an important role; a handshake is common, especially between men. When greeting women, it is best to wait for them to extend their hand first. Hospitality is a cornerstone of Iraqi culture. If you are invited into someone's home, it is considered a great honour, and it is customary to bring a small gift for the hosts, such as sweets. Regarding dress, modest attire is recommended, especially for women, who should ensure their shoulders, arms, and legs are covered. When visiting mosques, women must cover their hair with a scarf, while men should wear trousers and a shirt with sleeves.

There are also specific rules of etiquette at the dining table. For example, food should always be taken with the right hand, particularly when sharing a communal dish. It is considered polite to decline an offer of food or drink a few times before accepting it. Among the most important holidays are Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, and Eid al-Adha, the festival of sacrifice. These days are filled with family gatherings and generous feasts. In Kurdistan, Nowruz, the festival of spring and the new year, is also widely celebrated.

To avoid awkward situations, keep a few general tips in mind. Do not photograph people without their permission. It is considered rude to show the soles of your shoes to someone or to sit with your legs crossed in a way that the sole is visible. Public displays of affection are not customary. Showing patience and respect for local customs will always be appreciated and will make your journey through Iraq more pleasant and memorable.

Iraq, a country with a rich history and culture, offers tourists a variety of leisure opportunities, although they may differ from typical European formats. The main focus here is on cultural and historical tourism. Travellers can explore ancient cities, majestic mosques, and archaeological sites that bear witness to the millennia-long history of Mesopotamia. When visiting mosques and other religious sites, visitors should dress modestly out of respect for local customs. Numerous museums house unique artefacts that tell the story of the civilisations born in this land. You can immerse yourself in the local atmosphere at traditional bazaars (souqs), where handmade crafts and Middle Eastern sweets are sold.

For those who enjoy active holidays, the northern regions of the country, such as Iraqi Kurdistan, offer opportunities for hiking and trekking along scenic mountain trails. The natural landscape here boasts beautiful scenery and fresh air. Family entertainment also has its place: major cities have public parks for walks and relaxation, as well as some amusement centres and attractions where children can have fun. Overall, the country offers a calm and contemplative form of recreation, focused on exploring culture and nature.

Evening life in Iraq is mainly centred around restaurants and cafes, where you can enjoy traditional Iraqi cuisine, which is halal, or simply have tea with friends. The atmosphere is usually calm and conducive to conversation. As for shopping, in addition to the vibrant souqs where you can buy handmade carpets, copperware, spices, dates, and other authentic souvenirs, cities like Baghdad or Erbil also have modern shopping centres with a more familiar range of goods.

Planning a trip? Excellent! To ensure the financial aspects of your journey don't come as a surprise, it's important to remember that currency exchange rates are constantly changing. The local currency in Iraq is the Iraqi Dinar (IQD). Therefore, we strongly advise you to monitor the current rates both before you fly and throughout your trip. For this, you can use the data provided below—we monitor currency rates 24/7 and strive to provide the most up-to-date information.

For travellers from the UAE, it is useful to know the exchange rate between the UAE Dirham (AED) and the Iraqi Dinar (IQD). While US dollars are widely accepted, especially for larger transactions, having Iraqi Dinars is essential for smaller, everyday purchases like local transport, food, and market shopping. You can exchange currency at airports, but it's often more cost-effective to do so at exchange offices in major cities for better rates. Always count your money carefully at the exchange counter.

When dining out, you will find many restaurants offering delicious halal food. In major cities, prayer facilities are widely available in malls, airports, and public spaces, making it convenient to observe prayer times. As a sign of respect, especially when visiting religious sites, a modest dress code is recommended.