Iraq

Iraq is a land of ancient civilizations, layered history, and resilient spirit. Baghdad, once a center of learning and culture, still pulses with life despite decades of conflict. Mosul and Basra are slowly rebuilding, while Najaf and Karbala remain key pilgrimage sites for Shia Muslims. The ruins of Babylon, Ur, and Hatra speak to Iraq’s role as a cradle of civilization. The Tigris and Euphrates rivers still shape the land, as they have for millennia. Iraqi cuisine is rich and hearty, with dishes like masgouf, dolma, and kubba. Though challenging to visit, Iraq holds deep cultural roots and powerful stories.

Most visitors head to Baghdad, once the jewel of the Islamic Golden Age, now a city rebuilding itself amid contrasts: buzzing cafes, checkpoints, book markets, and war-scarred relics. In the south, Najaf and Karbala draw millions of religious pilgrims to their sacred shrines, while Babylon and Ur offer echoes of Mesopotamia, crumbling ziggurats and half-buried cities from the dawn of civilization. In the autonomous Kurdistan Region in the north, cities like Erbil and Sulaymaniyah are safer and more relaxed, with ancient citadels, green mountains, and a slower rhythm. Iraq isn’t easy, but it’s real, and the layers of culture, pain, and resilience make it unforgettable.

Iraq is a low to moderate-cost destination, but tourism infrastructure is still in its early stages. In the south, accommodations are mostly basic hotels, pilgrim lodgings, and some mid-range hotels in bigger cities. Kurdistan, by contrast, has a wider range of modern hotels, guesthouses, and eco-lodges. Food is cheap and hearty, expect kebabs, tikka, dolma, flatbreads, and lots of tea. Alcohol is restricted or unavailable in conservative areas but permitted in Kurdistan and some parts of Baghdad.

Getting around can be a challenge. In federal Iraq, you’ll likely need to hire a private driver, especially to access historic sites like Ur, Babylon, or Hatra. Security checkpoints are common, and you’ll often need to explain your purpose of travel. Taxis and local buses exist, but routes can be hard to figure out without Arabic or Kurdish. In Kurdistan, travel is easier, and hiring a car with a driver or using local taxis is common. Arabic and Kurdish are the official languages; English is limited but spoken by many young people, especially in Kurdistan. Iraq is still a sensitive destination, so you’ll need to keep up with current conditions, have local contacts, and register when required. But everyday crime against foreigners is rare, and the people are famously generous and proud of their heritage.

Why Go to Iraq?

• Baghdad’s Book Markets & Past Glory: Wander Mutanabbi Street, visit the Iraqi Museum, and soak up the resilience of a city once known for its scholars and poets.
• Babylon & Ancient Mesopotamia: Stand among the ruins of Babylon, walk past the Ishtar Gate replica, and imagine the time of Hammurabi and Nebuchadnezzar.
• Ur & the Ziggurat: Visit Ur, one of the world’s oldest cities and legendary home of Abraham, with its towering ziggurat and ancient residential quarters.
• Najaf & Karbala’s Sacred Shrines: Witness the religious devotion in Najaf and Karbala, where millions come to visit the shrines of Imam Ali and Imam Husayn.
• Kurdistan’s Mountains & Peaceful Vibe: Explore Erbil Citadel, relax in Sulaymaniyah’s cafes, or hike the green valleys of Rawanduz and Akre.
• Iraqi Cuisine & Hospitality: Enjoy masgouf (grilled river fish), rice and lamb dishes, and endless glasses of black tea with sugar and conversation.
• Hatra & Desert Ruins: Discover Hatra, a pre-Islamic desert city with Roman-Parthian architecture, a mix of styles reflecting Iraq’s ancient crossroads.

Start in Baghdad, still the country’s beating heart. Once a center of the Islamic Golden Age, today’s Baghdad is noisy, chaotic, and fiercely alive. Visit Mutanabbi Street on a Friday morning, it’s a book market, a gathering of poets, and a symbol of resilience. The Iraqi Museum, recently reopened, houses some of the world’s most important Sumerian, Assyrian, and Babylonian artifacts. The Abbasid Palace and Mustansiriya Madrasa hint at the city’s medieval brilliance.

South of Baghdad lies Iraq’s ancient soul. Babylon, with its reconstructed Ishtar Gate and palace ruins, evokes the grandeur of Nebuchadnezzar’s empire. Nearby Karbala and Najaf are sacred cities for Shia Muslims, respect is essential, but visitors are often welcomed warmly. The shrines of Imam Hussein and Imam Ali draw millions of pilgrims each year.

Further south, Ur, near Nasiriyah, is one of the oldest cities in the world. Its ziggurat rises from the desert as a remnant of the Sumerian era, this is where Abraham is said to have been born. Continue to the Marshes of southern Iraq, a wetland ecosystem once nearly destroyed but now rebounding. Boat trips through the reeds reveal a unique way of life rooted in thousands of years of history.

In the north, Erbil is the capital of the semi-autonomous Kurdistan Region. It’s safer and more accessible than the rest of the country and serves as a good starting point. The Erbil Citadel claims continuous habitation for over 6,000 years. From here, you can explore Lalish, the spiritual center of the Yazidi people, and Akre, known for its mountain village vibe and colorful Newroz festival.

Sulaymaniyah, farther east, feels more liberal and cultured, with museums, cafés, and the haunting Amna Suraka Museum, a former Ba’athist prison turned memorial.

Highlights

• Baghdad – Iraq’s capital, a city of contrasts where history, literature, and politics collide.
• Erbil – The Kurdish capital, home to one of the oldest continuously inhabited citadels in the world.
• Babylon – Ruins of an ancient empire, with reconstructed structures and a storied past.
• Karbala – A holy city with the shrine of Imam Hussein, central to Shia Islam.
• Ur – A Sumerian city-state, home to the Ziggurat of Ur and ties to early Abrahamic history.

Top Cities & Towns

• Baghdad – Dense, loud, and full of life, with museums, markets, and layered history.
• Erbil – A Kurdish city with ancient roots and a growing modern identity.
• Najaf – A spiritual city, home to the shrine of Imam Ali, a major pilgrimage site.
• Sulaymaniyah – Liberal, mountainous, and cultural, home to museums and memorials.
• Basra – A port city near the Shatt al-Arab, with palm groves and literary fame.

Nature & Outdoor Adventure

• Iraqi Marshes – Boat through this UNESCO-listed wetland, home to water buffalo, reed houses, and unique cultures.
• Halgurd Mountains (Kurdistan) – Snow-capped peaks perfect for trekking and wild scenery.
• Zawita Canyon – A quiet, beautiful valley near Duhok, good for picnics and hiking.
• Gali Ali Bag Waterfall – A popular Kurdish mountain retreat with dramatic waterfalls.
• Lake Dukan – A scenic lake near Sulaymaniyah, ideal for relaxation and nature walks.

Historical & Cultural Sites

• Iraqi Museum (Baghdad) – Artifacts from Sumer, Akkad, Babylon, and Assyria, all under one roof.
• Babylon – Reconstructed ruins with ancient walls, lion statues, and echoes of empire.
• Ziggurat of Ur – A massive stepped structure over 4,000 years old, in the desert near Nasiriyah.
• Erbil Citadel – A fortress that’s been inhabited since at least 5,000 BCE.
• Amna Suraka Museum – A former prison now memorializing Saddam-era atrocities, chilling and powerful.

Unique Experiences

• Wander Mutanabbi Street – Buy books, drink tea, and chat with writers in Baghdad’s intellectual heart.
• Boat through the marshes – See southern Iraq’s wetlands and meet the Marsh Arabs who live there.
• Stand inside Babylon – Walk where Nebuchadnezzar reigned and Alexander the Great died.
• Visit Yazidi shrines in Lalish – A spiritual valley nestled in the Kurdish hills, sacred and serene.
• Attend Ashura in Karbala – One of the world’s largest religious gatherings, if timed and approached with care.

In the capital, Baghdad, visitors can explore the rich history of the region at the Iraq Museum, which houses a world-renowned collection of artifacts from Mesopotamia, including the Ishtar Gate and the Standard of Ur. The city’s markets, like Shorja Market, offer a vibrant blend of modern life and centuries-old tradition. The iconic Al-Shaheed Monument stands as a symbol of Iraq’s modern history, while the Abu Hanifa Mosque offers insight into the country’s deep religious roots.

Beyond Baghdad, Iraq’s ancient cities and archaeological wonders are among the world’s most significant. The ruins of Babylon, with its reconstructed Ishtar Gate and the famous Hanging Gardens of Babylon, offer a glimpse into one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Nasiriyah is home to the ancient Sumerian city of Ur, where the well-preserved Ziggurat of Ur rises above the plains. The city of Karbala is a key pilgrimage site for Shia Muslims, with the Imam Hussain Shrine attracting millions of visitors annually. Iraq’s landscapes are just as varied, from the Mesopotamian marshlands in the south to the towering mountains of the Kurdistan Region, where trekking, history, and Kurdish culture offer a unique experience.

Don’t Miss Activities

Explore the Ruins of Babylon: Near Hillah, the partially reconstructed ancient city of Babylon offers insight into Mesopotamian history. Highlights include the Ishtar Gate (a replica), palace foundations, and proximity to the Euphrates.

Visit the Erbil Citadel: One of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited settlements, the citadel in Erbil rises dramatically above the Kurdish capital, with museums and panoramic views.

Walk Through the Old Streets of Baghdad: Visit Mutanabbi Street, the book market, and historical sites like the Abbasid Palace and Al-Mustansiriya School , reminders of Baghdad’s role as a medieval intellectual center.

Tour the Ziggurat of Ur: This well-preserved Sumerian temple complex near Nasiriyah is one of the most important archaeological sites in southern Iraq and dates back over 4,000 years.

Admire the Shrines of Najaf and Karbala: Among the holiest cities for Shia Muslims, these cities feature ornate shrines visited by millions of pilgrims , Imam Ali Shrine in Najaf and Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala.

Experience Kurdish Culture in the Mountains: The Kurdish north offers mountain landscapes, hospitality, and historic towns like Akre, Shaqlawa, and Sulaymaniyah , culturally distinct and much safer than the south.

Visit the Marshes of Southern Iraq: The Mesopotamian Marshes are a rebounding ecosystem with reed houses, boat rides, and rare wildlife , accessible from Chibayish or Nasiriyah.

Land Activities

Hiking & Trekking: The Kurdish mountains offer excellent hiking near Rawanduz, Amedi, and Soran. Spring and autumn are best for trails, waterfalls, and gorges.

Motorcycle Touring: Scenic roads in Iraqi Kurdistan (especially near Sulaymaniyah and Duhok) are favored by local bikers. Some foreign riders explore independently with caution.

Bicycle Touring: Possible in quieter parts of the north; road conditions vary and security concerns limit southern routes. Some bike rental options exist in the Kurdish region.

Caving / Spelunking: Natural caves like Geli Ali Beg Gorge and Ahmad Awa near Halabja attract local explorers, though infrastructure is minimal.

Wildlife Safari / Bird Watching: The southern marshes are a regional hotspot for birds, but outside that, wildlife opportunities are limited due to environmental degradation.

Rock Climbing: Some potential in northern Iraq, but no developed climbing routes or guiding infrastructure.

Water Activities

Kayaking / Canoeing: Boat tours in the Mesopotamian Marshes and kayaking in Lake Dukan or Lake Darbandikhan offer relaxing experiences in nature.

Fishing: Practiced locally in lakes and rivers , especially in the marshes and Kurdistan , but not organized for tourism.

Snorkeling: No coastline or suitable conditions for snorkeling.

Scuba Diving: Landlocked with no diving industry.

White Water Rafting: No rivers suitable for whitewater activities.

Surfing: No ocean access.

Wind Surfing: Not practiced and not feasible.

Leisure & Lifestyle

Shopping: Traditional bazaars in Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, and Baghdad offer spices, textiles, carpets, and copperware. Modern malls also exist in the north.

Cooking Classes: A few cultural centers and guesthouses in Kurdistan offer informal cooking experiences, focusing on Kurdish or Iraqi dishes like dolma, kebabs, and biryani.

Spa Treatments: Some modern spas in Erbil and Sulaymaniyah offer massages and hammam-style treatments, but options are limited elsewhere.

Wellness, Spas & Yoga: Yoga studios and wellness culture are emerging slowly in urban areas, especially in Kurdistan.

Weddings / Honeymoons: Not a traditional choice for international weddings, though local ceremonies are colorful and culturally rich.

Nightlife & Partying: Nightlife is mostly restricted to private gatherings. Erbil has a few lounges and restaurants serving alcohol, but nightlife is minimal overall.

Golfing: No golf courses.

Winter Activities

Skiing / Snowboarding: The Korek Mountain Resort in Kurdistan offers basic skiing and snowboarding facilities , modest slopes, but fun during snowfall.

Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing: Untapped potential in mountainous areas during winter, but no developed trails or rentals.

Cultural Experiences

Visit Ancient Mesopotamian Sites: See remains from Sumerian, Babylonian, and Assyrian civilizations, including Ur, Nineveh, and Hatra , though some require special permission or security escorts.

Experience Kurdish Hospitality and Folk Traditions: Enjoy traditional Kurdish music, dancing, food, and colorful dress, especially during Nowruz and springtime festivals.

Explore Traditional Bazaars: The bazaars of Sulaymaniyah, Erbil, and Baghdad are central to daily life , selling carpets, spices, sweets, textiles, and gold.

Attend a Religious Pilgrimage: Millions visit Najaf and Karbala each year, especially during Arbaeen. Though religious, it’s also a cultural and communal spectacle.

Tour Ottoman and Abbasid Architecture: Mosques, caravanserais, and bathhouses from centuries past remain in cities like Baghdad, Basra, and Erbil.

Visit the Red Prison Museum in Sulaymaniyah: This former Ba’athist torture facility is now a memorial and museum documenting the Anfal genocide and Kurdish resistance.

Celebrate Nowruz in the Kurdish Mountains: Fire jumping, picnics, dancing, and traditional dress mark the Persian/Kurdish New Year across northern Iraq each March.

Unique

Boat Through the Mesopotamian Marshes: Explore the wetlands by canoe, visit reed houses, and see rare birdlife in one of the most unique ecosystems of the Middle East.

Sleep in a Traditional Mudhif Guesthouse: In the south, stay in a traditional reed house built by the Marsh Arabs (Ma’dan) , a rare and welcoming cultural experience.

Explore Erbil Citadel: Wander the centuries-old streets of this hilltop settlement , a focal point of Kurdish history and one of the oldest urban sites on Earth.

Visit the Shrine of Imam Ali in Najaf: Among the holiest sites in Shia Islam, the shrine’s golden dome, spiritual atmosphere, and vast pilgrim crowds are powerful to witness.

See the Geli Ali Beg Waterfall and Northern Highlands: The mountains near Rawanduz are home to dramatic gorges, waterfalls, and green valleys , Iraq’s most photogenic landscapes.

Explore Lalish, the Yazidi Spiritual Center: This peaceful village and pilgrimage site is sacred to the Yazidi people and features unique cone-roofed shrines and rituals.

Attend a Traditional Kurdish Wedding: If invited, witnessing a Kurdish wedding is a colorful event with traditional music, dancing, and local attire.

Courses & Learning

Arabic or Kurdish Language Classes: Available in universities and cultural centers in Erbil and Sulaymaniyah, often focused on practical immersion.

Cooking Experiences with Local Families: Informal cooking classes available through guesthouses and homestays in the Kurdish region and southern Iraq.

Photography Tours of Ancient Sites and Landscapes: Join local guides for shooting ruins, bazaars, and mountain villages , especially scenic in Kurdistan.

Cultural Workshops and Festivals: Participate in Nowruz celebrations, Kurdish dance classes, or attend literary festivals in Sulaymaniyah and Baghdad.

Museum and Archaeology Visits: Educational tours at the Iraq Museum (Baghdad), Erbil Civilization Museum, and Red Prison Museum offer insight into Iraq’s deep heritage.

Iraq offers a variety of transportation options for travelers. While the security situation in some regions can vary, Iraq’s transportation infrastructure is improving, particularly in larger cities like Baghdad, Basra, and Erbil. The primary modes of transport include taxis, buses, ride-sharing services, and private cars, though domestic flights are also available for covering long distances.

Train

Iraq has a limited train network that connects a few major cities. However, trains are not widely used for domestic travel, and services are less frequent compared to buses or taxis.

• Baghdad to Basra (7–9 hours): A long journey to the southern oil-rich city of Basra.
• Baghdad to Mosul (4–5 hours): A route that connects the capital to Mosul, an ancient city in northern Iraq.

Trains are slow and limited. They’re not the most practical option for tourists, especially when compared to the convenience of buses or ride-sharing.

Bus

Buses are a common and affordable way to travel within Iraq, especially for longer distances between cities. There are public buses, as well as private buses operated by companies such as Zain and Iraqi Transportation Company.

• Baghdad to Erbil (6–7 hours): A route to Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region, popular for its ancient citadel and vibrant markets.
• Baghdad to Najaf (2.5 hours): A bus to Najaf, a key religious center for Shiite Muslims.
• Basra to Karbala (3 hours): Buses frequently run between Basra and Karbala, home to the famous Imam Hussein shrine.

Buses are inexpensive and widely available for intercity travel, though services can be unreliable at times.

Car Rental

Renting a car in Iraq can be more challenging than in other countries due to security concerns and road conditions. Most tourists opt for hiring a car with a driver, especially for longer trips or when visiting remote areas.

• Car rental in Baghdad: If you plan on visiting Babylon, Ctesiphon, or the Desert of Iraq, a car rental with a driver is the safest option.
• Renting a car to visit Kurdistan: The Kurdistan Region is more stable and often easier to explore by car, especially for trips to Sulaymaniyah, Erbil, and Duhok.

Driving in Iraq requires caution due to security checkpoints, poorly marked roads, and traffic congestion in larger cities. It’s often advisable to travel with a local driver who is familiar with the region.

Ride Share

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are not widely available in Iraq, but local ride-sharing apps such as Zalo are used in cities like Baghdad and Erbil.

• Zalo is a common app for local rides in Baghdad and Kurdistan, offering lower rates than traditional taxis.
• Careem is also available in Baghdad and Basra for easy bookings.

For short trips in major cities, ride-sharing services are a good alternative to taxis.

Ferries & Boats

Iraq has a small waterway system, and ferries operate on the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, although they are not primarily used for transport and are more common for recreational activities.

• Tigris River Cruises: Sightseeing trips on the Tigris in Baghdad and Basra are available, offering views of historic sites and markets.

Boats are not a practical means of transportation for getting around Iraq but can be a scenic way to see the cities.

Air

Domestic flights in Iraq are a quick way to cover long distances, especially given the size of the country. Iraqi Airways and Fly Baghdad are the main domestic carriers.

• Baghdad to Erbil (1 hour): A flight to Erbil, which connects the capital with the Kurdistan region.
• Baghdad to Basra (1 hour): A quick flight to the southern city known for its historical significance and oil industry.

Flights are fast, though delays are not uncommon. Booking flights in advance is recommended for popular routes.

Taxis

Taxis are the most common form of transport within cities like Baghdad, Basra, and Erbil. Yellow taxis are widely available, but be sure to negotiate the fare or use a ride-sharing app for a better experience.

• Taxis in Baghdad can be flagged down on the street or arranged via phone.
• Taxis in Erbil are easily available and generally safe.

Taxis are a good choice for short trips within cities but are less reliable than ride-sharing apps.

Public Transport in Cities

Public transport in Iraq’s cities is limited but functional. Buses and minibuses are available in major cities, though services may not be as regular or modern as in other countries.

• Baghdad: The capital has a limited bus system, mostly serving the suburbs.
• Erbil: The Kurdish region offers better public transport with mini-buses and private taxis that run on fixed routes.

Public transport in Iraq is affordable but unpredictable, with limited coverage in rural areas. Taxis or ride-sharing services are often better options for getting around cities.

Iraq is currently considered a high-risk destination for travel due to ongoing security concerns in certain regions, particularly in the north and west of the country. While some areas, especially in the Kurdish region, are considered relatively stable and welcoming to tourists, the security situation can change rapidly. It is essential for travelers to stay up-to-date on local security conditions through government advisories.

Health risks in Iraq are moderate to high, particularly due to the country’s ongoing conflicts, which have disrupted healthcare services in some areas. Tap water is generally not safe to drink, so bottled or purified water is highly recommended. Foodborne illnesses are a concern, especially from street food or unregulated food establishments. Iraq’s healthcare system, while functional in larger cities like Baghdad and Erbil, may lack resources in rural areas. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential for travelers to Iraq.

Scams & Petty Crime: Petty crime in Iraq is less common but can occur, particularly in crowded markets or public spaces. Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and small thefts are rare but possible. The larger risk is dealing with opportunistic individuals who may try to take advantage of foreigners. Travelers should exercise caution and avoid carrying valuables or large amounts of cash. Taxi scams or overcharging can also be an issue, so it is best to use reputable taxi services.

Political Unrest: Iraq is currently experiencing political instability, particularly in the aftermath of conflicts. The security situation remains fluid, with some areas experiencing protests, violence, and military operations. While certain parts of the country are safe for travel, travelers must avoid regions with ongoing conflicts, such as those near the borders with Syria and Iran, and be cautious about potential civil unrest in major cities.

Diseases: The health risks in Iraq are primarily related to food and waterborne illnesses, including hepatitis A, typhoid, and cholera. Tap water is unsafe to drink in most areas, and travelers should ensure they drink bottled or treated water. Malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases can be present in rural areas, and travelers should take precautions to avoid insect bites.

Health Facilities: Iraq’s healthcare system is strained due to ongoing conflicts and a lack of resources. While medical facilities in Baghdad, Erbil, and other major cities can provide basic care, they may lack necessary equipment or supplies. For serious medical conditions, evacuation to a nearby country like Jordan or Turkey is recommended.

Road Conditions: Roads in Iraq vary significantly. Major highways in urban areas are generally in good condition, but rural and conflict-affected areas can have poor infrastructure, with damaged or poorly maintained roads. Travel between cities can be hazardous due to the risk of roadblocks, military checkpoints, and attacks. Public transportation is limited and not recommended for tourists, and driving at night can be dangerous due to lack of lighting and security risks.

Food & Water: Tap water is unsafe to drink in most parts of Iraq. Bottled or boiled water is essential, even for brushing your teeth. Foodborne illnesses are common, particularly from street food or unhygienic food vendors. Stick to freshly cooked meals at reputable restaurants, and avoid consuming raw or undercooked food.

Nature’s Fury: Iraq is not prone to major natural disasters, but it does experience extreme heat during the summer, with temperatures reaching well over 40°C (104°F) in many parts of the country. Dust storms can also occur, especially in desert areas. Earthquakes, though not frequent, are possible, especially in the northern regions near the Iranian border. Travelers should prepare for extreme temperatures, especially if traveling during the summer months.

Embassies and Consulates

For visa applications, consular services, and official information, travelers can contact the following embassies and consulates of Iraq:

• Embassy of Iraq in the United States – Washington, D.C.
• Embassy of Iraq in the United Kingdom – London
• Embassy of Iraq in Canada – Ottawa, Ontario
• Embassy of Iraq in Australia – Canberra
• Embassy of Iraq in New Zealand – Wellington

Government Safety Advisories

• U.S. Department of State - Iraq Travel Advisory
• Government of Canada - Travel Advice and Advisories for Iraq
• UK Foreign Travel Advice - Iraq
• Australia Smartraveller - Iraq
• New Zealand SafeTravel - Iraq

Blogs and Forums

These platforms provide insights into traveling, living, and working in Iraq:

• Reddit: r/Iraq – A community for discussions about Iraq, including travel experiences, cultural insights, and current events.
• TripAdvisor: Iraq Travel Forum – A forum where travelers share their experiences, ask questions, and provide advice about visiting Iraq.

YouTube Channels & Videos

Explore Iraq through these travel vlogs and documentaries:

• Indigo Traveller - Iraq – A travel vlog offering insights into Iraq’s culture, travel tips, and must-see destinations.
• Drew Binsky - Iraq – A travel vlog providing a unique perspective on traveling through Iraq.

Instagram Feeds

These Instagram accounts highlight Iraq’s landscapes, culture, and urban life:

• @visit.iraq – An account showcasing the beauty and diversity of Iraq.
• @iraq.travel – Features stunning photos of Iraq’s cityscapes and cultural heritage.

Newspapers

Stay updated with Iraq’s latest news through these newspapers:

• Tehran Times – An English-language newspaper providing national and international news related to Iran.
• Iran Daily – Offers news coverage on current events, politics, and society in Iraq.

Other Useful Websites

• Government of Iraq
• Iraqi Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities
• Iraqi Airways
• Tehran International Airport
• Iran Railways

Travel Guides

These websites offer detailed travel guides for Iraq:

• Lonely Planet - Iraq
• Frommer’s - Iraq
• Fodor’s - Iraq
• Wikivoyage - Iraq