Baghdad experiences distinct seasonal changes. Summer (June-August) is intensely hot, with average daily temperatures typically ranging from 35-45°C (95-113°F), often exceeding 50°C (122°F). Humidity remains very low. Precipitation is negligible. The sun is powerful, and shade provides little relief.
Spring (March-May) brings a welcome transition, with temperatures ranging from 20-35°C (68-95°F). Early spring sees some rain. Autumn (September-November) mirrors spring, with temperatures from 20-35°C (68-95°F). Winter (December-February) is mild plus damp, with temperatures from 10-20°C (50-68°F).
Your choice of travel season influences crowds and pricing. Baghdad’s tourism cycles directly align with its climate.
High Season: October to April. Mild and pleasant temperatures, ideal for seeing the sights and outdoor activities. More demand and potential for increased prices for hotels and tours.
October to April
Mild, agreeable weather for sightseeing and outdoor exploration.
Stronger demand, potentially increased prices for accommodations and tours.
May & September
Hot, but more manageable than summer. Fewer crowds, potentially lower prices.
Heat remains a significant factor; outdoor activities need planning.
From june To august
Significantly fewer international tourists; potential for lower prices.
Extremely high temperatures make outdoor activities uncomfortable and pose health risks.
Baghdad experiences specific weather phenomena. Summers have intense, prolonged heatwaves, requiring adaptation and caution. These aren't merely hot days but sustained times of severe heat.
These are common, specifically in spring and summer. They reduce visibility drastically, impact air purity, and cause respiratory discomfort. Prepare with protective eyewear and masks if you are prone to breathing issues. These storms disrupt travel plans.
October-April for easy exploration.
October-April for pleasant conditions.
Cooler the evenings are ideal for traditional cafes and restaurants.
Summer for avoiding peak heat.
Any season, as activities are indoors.
Rules change, so always double-check the latest data from an official Iraqi embassy or consulate.
Tourist visas are available for many nationalities, including those from Western countries. Other visa types include business, transit, and diplomatic visas, each with specific requirements.
Recent changes (around 2021) allow visa-on-arrival for citizens of a specific list of countries at international airports, mainly Baghdad International Airport. This list includes countries like EU member states, US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, UAE, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, and China. This VOA is under certain conditions.
Iraq uses its own currency, and payment methods are not the same as many Occidental nations. Travel costs vary significantly based on your preferred style, especially given the security considerations in Baghdad.
Health and safety are crucial when planning a trip to Baghdad. Iraq remains a high-risk a place to travel to, and understanding the risks helps you prepare adequately.
Proof of Yellow Fever vaccination is required if arriving from or transiting through a country with a risk of transmission.
Consult your doctor for a personalized plan. Recommended vaccines include routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP), Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Polio, and potentially Rabies.
Ensure your Polio vaccination is current.
Drinking tap water is generally not safe for consumption.
Rely on bottled, boiled, or purified water for drinking and brushing teeth. Steer clear of ice made from tap water.
Use great caution with street food. Ensure food is cooked thoroughly and served hot. Select trustworthy restaurants and avoid buffets where food sits out for long periods.
Food and waterdiseases spread by vectors like traveler's diarrhea, typhoid, and hepatitis A are common. Prevent by following hygiene guidelines.
Significant risks, especially during summer. Drink plenty of fluids (water), wear light, loose clothing, and avoid strenuous activity during midday heat. Seek shade frequently.
Common, especially in spring and summer. They cause respiratory irritation. Carry protective eyewear and masks if susceptible to respiratory issues. Stay inside during severe storms.
High-quality public healthcare is limited. Private hospitals offer better facilities, but may still be basic. For severe emergencies, evacuation may be required. Ensure travel insurance covers this.
Iraq, including Baghdad, remains a high-risk a tourist destination due to ongoing security concerns, political instability, and the presence of extremist groups. This indicates a higher level of vigilance is required.
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. Ensure your policy includes coverage for medical emergencies, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, and liability for personal injury. Critically, verify that your policy specifically covers travel to high-risk destinations like Iraq, as many standard policies exclude such locations.
Medical emergencies, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, and liability for personal injury.
Confirm your policy specifically covers high-risk places such as Iraq.
Police: 100, Ambulance: 104, Fire: 115. Response times and effectiveness vary.
