Erbil Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Essential Preparations Timeline

A chronological timeline ensures all important steps are completed.

Your Erbil Travel Timeline

A step-by-step guide to your preparations.

1

Months Prior

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (6+ months). Research visa for KRI.

Major Flights

Reserve international flights to Erbil International Airport (EBL).

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance (World Nomads).

2

Month Prior

Accommodation

Book hotels or other accommodation in Erbil and for excursions.

Health Consult

See a doctor for shots and necessary prescription refills.

Itinerary & Permits

Plan detailed itinerary. Apply for necessary visas/entry permits.

3

Week Prior

Bank Notification

Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates.

Digital Prep

Download offline maps and travel apps (Careem/Bolt, Google Translate).

Document Copies

Make digital and physical copies of passport, visa, insurance.

Required Advance Bookings

Confirm these reservations for a seamless trip.

Bookings Overview

International flights to Erbil International Airport (EBL).
Accommodation for your entire stay.
Any specific organized tours or personal drivers for excursions.
(Optional) Entry tickets for specific events or performances.

Pre-Trip Research

Insights for respectful and safe travel.

Information

Local Customs: Familiarize yourself with etiquette and dress codes.
Safety: Review the latest travel advisories from your government.
Phrases: Learn a few basic words in Kurdish or Arabic.
Home Prep: Inform contacts, arrange care, and book your residence.

Final Home Preparations

Ensure your home is set for your absence.

Household Security

Fasten all doors and windows.
Set timers for lights.
Arrange mail collection.
Unplug unnecessary electronics.

Personal Arrangements

Inform trusted friends/family of itinerary.
Arrange for pet care.
Organize plant watering.
Leave emergency contacts.

Financial & Digital

Clear bills due during your trip.
Set up out-of-office replies.
Back up important files.
Empty perishable items from fridge.

Passport & Visa Alert

Always confirm your passport has at least six months of validity beyond your planned return date and that you meet all visa requirements for the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.

Arrival Checklist

These steps help you settle into Erbil smoothly upon arrival.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration & Visa
Proceed through immigration at Erbil International Airport. Have passport and any visa documentation ready. Pay the visa on arrival fee when necessary.
2
Luggage & Currency
Collect your luggage. Exchange a small amount of currency at the airport if you do not already have Iraqi Dinars or small USD.
3
Connectivity
Purchase a local SIM card (Korek Telecom, Asiacell, or Zain) at the airport to stay connected.

Orientation Strategies

Airport Transport
Arrange transport from the airport to your accommodation (pre-booked shuttle, private car, or airport taxi).
Settle In & Explore
Check into your accommodation and unpack. Take a short walk around your immediate neighborhood to get your bearings.
Locate Amenities
Identify nearby ATMs, pharmacies, grocery stores, and restaurants for your convenience.

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase last-minute souvenirs from the Qaysari Bazaar or modern shopping plazas.

For large items, confirm shipping arrangements with the vendor.

Pre-Departure Timing

Arrive 2-3 hours before your international flight from EBL for procedures.

Factor in potential traffic to the airport.

Return Trip Documents

Confirm your return flight details and necessary documents for your next destination or home country.

Pack liquids and restricted items according to airline regulations.

Travel Note

Value Added Tax (VAT) refunds are not applicable in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Do not export items considered antiquities; this is not allowed under any circumstances.