Essential Iraq Travel Tips for First-Timers

Before you go

Iraq rewards prepared travelers. Most visitors land in Baghdad (BGW) or Erbil (EBL) in the Kurdistan Region, which has its own visa-on-arrival rules. Federal Iraq now offers visa-on-arrival for many nationalities, but always confirm current requirements before booking. Carry a printed hotel reservation and some cash.

Plugs and voltage

Iraq runs on 230 V, 50 Hz. Sockets are usually types C, D and G (the British three-pin type G is very common). Bring a universal adapter. Power cuts happen, especially in summer, so a power bank and a small flashlight are genuinely useful.

Language basics

Arabic is the main language; Kurdish (Sorani) dominates in Erbil, Sulaymaniyah and Duhok. English is limited outside hotels. Learn a few words:

• Salam (hello)
• Shukran (thank you)
• Na'am / La (yes / no)
• Bekhair bey (welcome, Kurdish)

Packing

• Modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees; a scarf for mosque visits
• Lightweight layers for hot days and cool desert nights
• Comfortable shoes for ruins like Babylon and Ur
• A copy of your passport and visa
• Basic medications, sunscreen and a refillable water bottle

Connectivity

Local SIMs from Asiacell, Zain Iraq and Korek work well but require ID registration and a local stop. An eSIM is the simplest option: activate before you fly and you are online the moment you land.

7 quick tips

• Carry cash (US dollars and Iraqi dinar). Cards are rarely accepted outside big hotels.
• Friday is the rest day in Iraq; many shops and offices close.
• Dress modestly and ask before photographing people, soldiers or checkpoints.
• Expect checkpoints between cities; keep your passport handy and stay patient.
• Drink bottled water and eat at busy, popular restaurants.
• Use trusted drivers or arranged transport rather than hailing randomly.
• Greet generously Iraqi hospitality is famous; accepting tea is part of the welcome.

Stay connected in Iraq

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