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Mosul Travel Checklist

Mosul Travel Checklist

Mosul Nineveh, Iraq Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

A methodical approach to pre-trip planning is for Mosul.

Chronological Planning

Steps to follow well in advance of your travel date.

3M+

Months Before

Security Risk Assessment

Obtain a comprehensive security risk assessment from specialists.

Government Permissions

Make sure all are secure needed government and local permissions for entry and access.

Visa & Insurance

Apply for your Iraqi visa. Arrange comprehensive, high-risk travel insurance (World Nomads is a provider).

1M

Month Before

Bookings

Book all flights, accommodation, and ground transport/security.

Document Copies

Prepare multiple physical and digital copies of your passport, visa, permits, and insurance policy.

Gear & Registry

Purchase necessary gear and medications. Inform your country's embassy of travel plans.

1W

Week Before

Final Confirmations

Confirm all bookings, arrangements, and permissions with your local team.

Packing & Emergency

Pack all items. Share your detailed itinerary and emergency contacts with home.

Digital Readiness

Load necessary apps (offline maps, translation tools) onto your phone. Obtain sufficient cash.

Required Advance Bookings

All major logistical elements demand pre-arrangement.

Reservations

  • Flights: International and domestic segments.
  • Accommodation: Vetted hotel or organizational guesthouse.
  • Ground Transit: Secure transport from arrival airport to Mosul and for city movements.
  • Security Team & Local Fixer: Confirm your professional security detail and local fixer.

Pre-Trip Research & Home Prep

Thorough research and home arrangements ensure a smooth departure.

Information & Home Care

  • Current Security Conditions: Deep research into the latest security conditions and local political dynamics.
  • Cultural Norms: Understand local cultural norms, etiquette, and dress codes.
  • Home Security: Secure your home and arrange for mail collection or bill payments.
  • Pet Care: Organize pet care if applicable. Inform a trusted contact of your travel dates.

Required Items and Documents

A comprehensive list of articles needed for your safe journey.

Personal Safety Gear

  • Comprehensive First Aid Kit
  • N95 Masks (for dust storms/air quality)
  • Personal Medications & Prescriptions
  • Reliable Flashlight & Power Bank

Documentation & Connectivity

  • Passport & Visa (copies physical/digital)
  • Government & Local Permissions
  • Travel Insurance Policy (high-risk coverage)
  • Satellite Phone (if operating in remote areas)

Practical Items

  • US Dollars & Iraqi Dinars (cash)
  • Power Adapters & Converters
  • Water Purification Tablets/Filter
  • Personal Hygiene Kit & Sunscreen

Travel Insurance Warning

Ensure your travel insurance explicitly covers war, terrorism, and political evacuation. Many standard policies do not.

Arrival Checklist

First steps upon arrival are important for integrating into the local security environment.

Initial Arrival Procedures

  • 1
    Immigration/Customs:

    Navigate procedures efficiently. Have all documents ready.

  • 2
    Meet Transport:

    Fulfill your pre-arranged security/transport team at the airport. They will guide next steps.

  • 3
    Secure Transfer:

    Ensure a secure transfer from the entry point (likely Erbil International Airport) to your accommodation in Mosul.

Orientation & Logistics

  • Security Briefing:

    Receive an immediate, in-depth security briefing from your local team upon arrival in Mosul.

  • Familiarization:

    Become acquainted with your accommodation surroundings and designated safe areas.

  • Currency & SIM:

    Exchange Iraqi Dinars and purchase a local SIM card, ensuring it works.

Transportation Guidance

Vetted Transport

Only use pre-arranged, vetted, and secure transport from your admission point to accommodation.

This prioritizes your safety.

Avoid Public Options

Do not use random taxis or public transport for any movements.

These options present heightened risks.

Route Planning

Your local team designs all routes based on current security assessments.

Stay informed about your planned movements.

Useful First Steps

Navigating arrival correctly establishes the tone for a secure and productive visit. Rely on your local team.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure with the same rigor as your arrival.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Purchase souvenirs from trusted local vendors.
  • Shipping items internationally from Iraq can be complicated and expensive.
  • Plan to bring items with you when possible.
  • Do not acquire any historical artifacts or antiquities; their trade is often illegal.

Departure Logistics

  • Allow Ample Time: Leave Mosul for your departure airport (Erbil or Baghdad) well in advance.
  • Airport Security: Allow 3+ hours at the airport for extensive security checks.
  • Checkpoint Delays: Factor in potential delays at checkpoints between Mosul and the KRI, or en route to Baghdad.
  • Return Trip Preparation: Confirm all onward flights and transport arrangements. Conduct a debriefing with your security team.

Customs Declarations

Be aware of specific regulations when exiting Iraq.

Important Declarations

  • Currency Restrictions:Be aware of limits on carrying cash.
  • Precious Items:Declare high-value electronics or jewelry.
  • Prohibited Goods:Avoid possessing any illicit items.
  • VAT Refunds:Not applicable in Iraq.

Checklist Integration

  • This checklist is a framework.
  • Your specific situation and the evolving security landscape necessitate constant adjustment.
  • Reliance on expert local guidance is paramount.
  • Confirm all steps with your team.

Document Security

Keep your passport and all travel documents organized and secure.

They are required for all movements in Iraq, including checkpoints.