Getting Around Iraq

Air

Iraqi Airways (www.iraqiairways.com.iq) has domestic flights between Baghdad, Basra, Suleimaniya and Erbil.

Road

Travel by road is not wholly recommended at present, due to the continuing threat of carjacking, robbery and random attacks; these have often occurred on highways 1, 5, 10 and 15. It is recommended to travel in convoys of at least four per vehicle in daylight hours only. Road closures must also be expected.

Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and/or mines are used on some roads. Some cars do not use lights at night and some urban street lighting may be broken. Road congestion is a problem.

Principal routes are from Baghdad to Kirkuk, Arbil and Zakho; Baghdad to the Jordanian frontier; Baghdad to Kanaquin (Iranian border); Baghdad to Hilla and Kerbela; and Baghdad to Al Basrah and Safwan (Kuwait border).

Side of the road

Car Hire

Available at the airport and in Baghdad.

Taxi

Services are available both in cities and for transit. Fares should be negotiated in advance. Metered taxis charge twice the amount shown on the meter. Tipping is not necessary.

Documentation

International Driving Permit required. Third-party insurance is necessary.

Urban travel

Baghdad has a few buses, a commuter train and share-taxis running. Buses are poorly maintained and they are often involved in accidents. Services are irregular and frequently change route. Bus tickets should be pre-purchased at kiosks.

Rail

Rail services are operated by Iraq Republic Railways. The only route currently in operation is between Baghdad and Basra.