Mosul Nineveh, Iraq Travel Guide
Mosul International Airport (OSM) is under reconstruction and has limited or no commercial flights for the main public. It primarily serves military, government, and of peopleitarian logistics. Do not plan to fly directly into Mosul.
No direct flights from major global hubs operate directly to Mosul. Travelers generally find direct flights to Erbil or Baghdad from some European, Middle Eastern, and Asian hubs. Plan for a connecting flight to one of these major Iraqi airports.
Erbil International Airport is the most common and safest point of entry for those heading to Mosul.
The journey from Erbil to Mosul means crossing a checkpoint separating the KRI from Federal Iraq. This crossing demands proper documentation and may mean delays.
Mosul International Airport is currently undergoing reconstruction. Do not plan to fly directly into Mosul commercially.
Limited domestic flights connect Baghdad and Erbil, providing a faster alternative to overland travel between these two cities.
Erbil International Airport is an up-to-date facility with duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, currency exchange, and lounges.
Car hire companies exist at Erbil, but renting a car for travel to Mosul is not advised for foreigners.
The Ibrahim Khalil/Habur border crossing from Turkey into the KRI is the most common overland route for northern Iraq. From that location, onward travel to Mosul calls for crossing the KRI-Federal Iraq administrative boundary.
Self-driving for foreign nationals in Mosul and surrounding areas is strongly advised against. This is due to security risks like kidnapping, IEDs, and UXO, as well as complex road conditions and numerous checkpoints.
Car rental is available in major cities like Erbil or Baghdad. Major international companies might have a presence, alongside local agencies. For current options, check DiscoverCars.com.
Motorcycle and scooter rentals are not available or advised for foreigners in Mosul. The risks associated with driving a car are amplified for motorcycles.
Sea or river arrivals are not applicable for Mosul, as it is an inland city. The Tigris River flows through Mosul, but it is not serve as an international entry point for foreign travelers.
Limited private boats operate on the Tigris River for local use, but this is not a formal transport option for visitors. Using these boats would introduce additional security and safety risks.
Mosul's geographical location inland means no access via international sea routes.
The Tigris River does not have formal passenger services for international visitors.
All modes of transport, especially informal ones, must be considered within a strict security framework.
Iraq may have a small departure tax. This is often included in the price of your airfare, but it is wise to confirm with your airline or travel agent. Keep a small amount of local currency available for any unexpected fees.
Expect extensive security checks at Iraqi airports (Erbil or Baghdad). This includes multiple layers of screening for both passengers and luggage. Allow ample time for the journey from Mosul to the airport of departure, including potential delays at checkpoints.
Offers currency exchange, cafes, shops, and duty-free for departing travelers.
Provides basic facilities including currency exchange and cafes.
Extremely limited facilities; not set up for commercial passenger services.
Your security team or sponsoring organization's guidance holds invaluable weight to ensure safety and smooth exit from Iraq.
