Visa and Immigration Procedures to Iraq

Iraq - Local Climate / Weather

raq experiences a hot desert climate in most regions, with long, scorching summers and mild to cool winters. The country has two main climate zones: ・Central and Southern Iraq (e.g., Baghdad, Basra): Summers are extremely hot, with temperatures often reaching over 40°C (104°F) from June to August. Winters are mild, with daytime temperatures around 15–20°C (59–68°F) and cooler nights. ・Northern Iraq (e.g., Erbil): Summers are hot but generally cooler than the southern areas, while winters can be colder with occasional snow in mountainous areas.

Iraq - Currency & Tipping

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Currency

The currency in Iraq is the Iraqi Dinar (IQD). Banknotes come in denominations of 250, 500, 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, and 25,000 dinars, while smaller denominations like coins are less commonly used.

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated in Iraq, especially in restaurants, where leaving 10–15% of the bill is customary. In hotels, tipping staff such as porters and housekeeping is also common, typically around 1,000–2,000 IQD.

Useful Travel Information

Iraq - Voltage & Electrical Outlets

Iraq operates on a 230V supply voltage and uses Type C and Type F power plugs, which are standard in Europe and parts of Asia. Travelers may need a voltage converter or plug adapter to use their electronic devices. It’s advisable to check if your devices are compatible with 230V before traveling.

Iraq - Internet Connectivity

Wi-Fi is commonly available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants in major cities, although speeds may vary. Travelers can also purchase local SIM cards with data plans from providers like Zain or Asiacell for reliable internet access throughout Iraq. Keep in mind that internet access may be limited in remote or rural areas.

Iraq - Water for Consumption (Drinking Water)

It is recommended to avoid drinking tap water in Iraq due to concerns over water quality. Travelers should opt for bottled water, which is widely available and affordable, especially in urban areas. Boiling or using water purification tablets is also a good option if bottled water isn’t accessible.

Culture, Religion & Social Etiquette

Iraq - Culture

Iraqi culture is deeply influenced by its history, including Arab, Kurdish, and Persian traditions, with a strong emphasis on family and hospitality. Traditional music, dance, and cuisine play a significant role in social gatherings and celebrations.

Iraq - Religion

Islam is the dominant religion in Iraq, with the majority of Iraqis being Shia Muslims, though there is a significant Sunni Muslim minority and a presence of other religions. Religious practices and holidays, such as Ramadan and Eid, are widely observed and shape the cultural landscape.

Iraq - Social Etiquette

Iraqis value respect and politeness, especially when addressing elders or authority figures, and it’s customary to greet with a handshake or kiss on the cheek among close friends. Dress modestly, particularly in religious or rural areas, as modesty is highly regarded in both public and private spaces.

Iraq - Food Culture

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Iraqi cuisine is a rich blend of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors, with dishes like kebabs, hummus, and pilaf being popular staples. Street food in Iraq offers a variety of delicious options, including falafel, sambousak (fried pastries), and shawarma, which can be found in bustling markets and street vendors. For a taste of authentic Iraqi dishes, recommended local restaurants in cities like Baghdad and Erbil include Al-Mansour Restaurant and Kurdish restaurant for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Iraq - Major Tourist Attractions & UNESCO World Heritage Sites

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Iraq - Major Tourist Attractions

The ruins of Babylon, located south of Baghdad, the capital of Iraq, include the Ishtar Gate of Babylon. The gate is made of colored bricks in the shape of a dragon or a bull. The real one is in the Pergamon Museum in Berlin, but a replica has been erected at the original site for sightseeing. Iraq is still in the midst of ongoing warfare. Important cultural assets are being lost due to destruction and robbery. In addition, the security situation in Iraq is not good. Many areas have been evacuated, so travel should be avoided.

Iraq - UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Iraq has cultural heritage sites such as the Citadel of Al-Bir, the Ashur Ruins, the Archaeological City of Sahmallah, and the Hatrah Ruins. The Citadel of Al-Bir is the most recently recognized heritage site in Iraq and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. The city is built on an artificially created plateau, and the city has developed in a radial pattern around the walled citadel. While many ruins, including furnishings, have been excavated at the site of Ashur, only about 1/3 of the site has been excavated, and it is currently listed as a “Heritage in Crisis” site due to the danger of flooding caused by the construction of a dam nearby in the past (which has now been cancelled). The Archaeological City of Saamallah is represented by the Malwiya Minaret, a huge spiral tower 54 meters high. The city plan and sculptures can be seen here. The Malwiya Minaret was an Islamic mosque, one of the largest in the world at the time. The “Hatrah Ruins,” also known as the “House of God,” was the site of numerous attacks by the Roman Empire. Recently, it was destroyed by Islamic extremists, and it will take a huge amount of money and time to restore it.

Iraq- Souvenirs

Iraq offers unique souvenirs reflecting its rich history and culture, with popular items including handcrafted carpets, traditional jewelry, and pottery. The bustling markets in Baghdad and Erbil, like the Mutanabbi Street and Erbil Bazaar, are perfect for finding these treasures, along with spices, dates, and local textiles. Haggling is common in Iraqi markets, so visitors should feel free to negotiate prices for a more authentic shopping experience.

Things/Items Allowed into Iraq

Things/Items Forbidden out of Iraq

Things/Items Forbidden into Iraq

Iraq Travel FAQs

Iraq - Direct Flights to Major Airports

Flight Routes to Iraq