Abu Ghurayb Baghdad, Iraq Travel Guide
Major mobile providers include Zain Iraq, Asiacell, and Korek Telecom. SIM cards are available at Baghdad International Airport or official stores in Baghdad, necessitating passport registration. Coverage is generally good in Baghdad and major cities, although it may be spotty in rural areas.
Wi-Fi is accessible in hotels, some coffee shops, and restaurants in Baghdad. Connectivity often proves reliable, though speeds vary. Mobile data plans from local SIM cards furnish internet access on the go.
Arabic is the official language. Kurmanji (Kurdish) finds use in the Kurdistan Region. English comprehension extends to some professionals in Baghdad's hotels and businesses, but it is not extensive.
The Iraqi postal service remains operational, though foreign visitors do not commonly use it for international mail. International courier services like DHL and FedEx are accessible in Baghdad for urgent or important shipments.
Carrying a charged phone with crucial translation apps and local emergency contacts merits attention. Always maintain situational awareness regarding phone usage in public areas.
Generally 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Sunday-Thursday.
Typically 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM, Sunday-Thursday.
Vary widely; many open late morning, close for siesta, reopen in evening. Often open Saturdays.
Friday is the main day of rest. Major holidays may result in closed or restricted services.
Some businesses may feature reduced hours during the extremely hot summer months or during significant religious observances.
Verify opening hours and potential holiday closures for specific attractions or businesses before you go. This minimizes unforeseen disruptions.
Respectful interaction with local customs and traditions fosters positive experiences.
Handshakes find common use between men. Men typically do not shake hands with women unless the woman extends her hand first. A kiss on the cheek (right, then left) is common between close friends or family of the same gender. "Salam Alaikum" (Peace be upon you) is an universal greeting.
Conservative dress is a fundamental aspect (refer to Section 3.1 for more details). Modesty holds high cultural value. Remove your shoes before entering mosques or private homes as a mark of respect.
Eat with your right hand. Do not point the soles of your feet at anyone. Wait to be seated or directed in restaurants. Tipping is customary (refer to Section 2.3 for specific guidance).
Always seek permission before photographing individuals, especially women. Avoid photographing government buildings, military installations, checkpoints, or scenes potentially deemed sensitive without explicit permission.
Remove shoes before entering mosques. Women must cover their heads, arms, and legs. Men should dress modestly. Maintain quiet and respectful behavior within all religious precincts.
Iraq's infrastructure has significant challenges for travelers with mobility needs.
Accessibility infrastructure remains extremely limited. Public buildings, transportation systems, and sidewalks are generally not designed for ease of access for individuals with mobility challenges. Uneven surfaces and lack of ramps are common.
Very few, if any, attractions or transportation options are officially accessible for individuals with disabilities. Visitors with mobility needs should anticipate considerable difficulties in movement and access throughout their stay.
Limited specialized services are available for travelers with visual or hearing impairments. Information in Braille or sign language interpretation is not widely offered in public spaces or tourist facilities.
No specific resources or organizations focusing on accessibility tourism in Iraq are presently available for foreign travelers.
Travelers with mobility or sensory impairments should undertake meticulous planning and arrange for personal assistance or specialized transport in advance. Expect significant limitations.
