Getting Around Iraq: A Complete Transport Guide

Getting around Iraq

Iraq is a large country where roads, not rails, carry most travelers. There is no useful passenger rail network for tourists today, so planning around buses, shared taxis, domestic flights, and car hire is the practical reality.

Trains and metro

The Iraqi Republic Railways still runs a limited overnight service between Baghdad and Basra, but schedules are irregular and rarely used by visitors. There is no metro or urban rail system in any Iraqi city, though a Baghdad metro has long been proposed. For day-to-day movement, plan on road transport.

Buses and shared taxis

Intercity travel is dominated by shared taxis (often called Kia or Toyota minibuses) and coaches. Garage hubs in each city, such as Baghdad's Nahda garage, gather vehicles heading to other governorates. Companies like NICO run more comfortable coaches between major cities.

• Shared taxis leave when full, so allow flexible timing
• Coaches between Baghdad, Karbala, Najaf, and Basra are cheap, roughly 10,000-25,000 IQD
• Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, and Duhok in the Kurdistan Region are well linked by minibus

Ride apps

In cities, app-based rides are the easiest way to move. Careem operates in Baghdad, Erbil, and other hubs, and local app Baly is widely used. These remove price haggling and language friction. Street taxis are plentiful but always agree the fare before setting off.

Domestic flights

For long distances, flying saves hours. Iraqi Airways and Fly Baghdad connect Baghdad with Basra, Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, and Najaf. A Baghdad-Erbil hop is about 1 hour versus a long road trip, and tickets are reasonably priced.

Car rental and driving

Renting a car gives freedom, especially in the Kurdistan Region where roads are good and driving is calmer. Agencies operate at Erbil and Baghdad airports. Be aware of:

• Frequent security checkpoints, so carry your passport and permits
• Aggressive city traffic and informal parking
• Hiring a car with a driver, which is common and often safer for visitors

Intercity travel tips

• Travel between cities in daylight where possible
• Check current security advice before crossing between regions
• Keep small IQD notes for fares and tips
• Friday mornings are quieter on the roads

Stay connected in Iraq

A HelloSIM eSIM keeps you online for maps, translation, and ride-app bookings the moment you land, with no roaming bills or hunting for a local SIM.