How to Get to As Sulaymaniyah. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

Sulaymaniyah International Airport (SUL): This airport directly serves Sulaymaniyah city. It offers ease for direct access to your destination. Erbil International Airport (EBL): Located approximately 3-4 hours by car from Sulaymaniyah, Erbil International Airport frequently offers more international flight connections and a wider choice of airlines. Many travelers choose to fly into EBL and then travel by land to Sulaymaniyah.

Flight Routes & Availability

Airlines serving SUL: Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul), Qatar Airways (via Doha), flydubai (via Dubai), and Pegasus Airlines (via Istanbul). Various Iraqi and Kurdish airlines also operate domestic and regional flights.
Typical Routes: International connections primarily occur through major West Asian hubs like Istanbul, Dubai, Doha, and Amman. No direct flights from major global hubs connect directly to SUL. All international journeys to Sulaymaniyah require no less than one stopover, typically in the Middle East or Turkey. Plan for layovers in cities like Istanbul, Dubai, or Doha.
Seasonal Flight Availability: Flight availability to Sulaymaniyah generally stays stable throughout the year. However, prices can rise during peak travel seasons, like spring, autumn, and around local holidays like Eid. Book flights in advance for better rates at these times.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

Sulaymaniyah International Airport (SUL): Features a modern terminal with basic facilities. You will find duty-free shops, cafes, currency exchange services, and car hire counters. Wi-Fi access may be available. Erbil International Airport (EBL): Offers more extensive facilities, including a wider range of dining options, shops, and passenger services.

Transfers to City/Accommodation

From SUL to Sulaymaniyah City: Taxis are the principal means of transport. Haggle the price before starting your journey. TRANSPORTATION typically costs approximately 10,000-20,000 IQD and lasts about 15-20 minutes. Some hotels might offer shuttle services; inquire when you reserve.
From EBL to Sulaymaniyah City: Shared Taxis (Mashina): These taxis depart when full and provide a more economical option, costing around 10,000-15,000 IQD per person. You find them outside the airport terminal. Private Taxis: Private taxis cost significantly more, approximately 50,000-80,000 IQD, but offer a non-stop and faster journey.
The journey from Erbil to Sulaymaniyah lasts about 3-4 hours by road.

Airline Contact

Confirm your flight details and transfer arrangements in advance.

Pre-Arranged Transfer

If arriving at EBL, consider pre-arranging a private transfer for ease, especially with heavy luggage or late arrival.

Luggage Prep

Prepare for airport security checks, removing electronics and liquids.

Land Transportation

Border Crossings

Ibrahim Khalil (Habur) Border Crossing: Main land border between KRI and Turkey, crossable by bus or shared taxi.
Bashmaq/Parviz Khan Border Crossings: Connect the Kurdistan Region of Iraq with Iran.
Faysh Khabur: Border crossing with Syria currently restricted or closed for tourism.
Internal Checkpoints: Expect numerous checkpoints throughout the KRI. Always carry your passport and visa. Be patient and cooperate with security personnel.

Bus & Train Travel

No passenger train services exist in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Rail travel is not a option.
Inter-city Buses: Regular bus services connect Sulaymaniyah with Erbil, Duhok, Kirkuk, and other major cities within the KRI. Some services extend to parts of Federal Iraq.
International Buses: Buses operate to and from Turkish cities via the Ibrahim Khalil border crossing.
Companies: Several private companies operate these routes. Services are generally basic but affordable. Ask at local bus stations for schedules and fares.

Self-Driving & Road Safety

Driving Requirements

An International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your valid national driver's license is necessary to drive in the Kurdistan Region. Car rental agencies are present in Sulaymaniyah; international chains are less common.

Road Conditions

Main roads between cities in the KRI are generally well-maintained. However, rural roads can be unpaved, uneven, or in poor condition. Road conditions vary considerably.

Safety Concerns

Traffic accidents pose a significant risk. Expect aggressive driving behavior and inconsistent adherence to traffic laws. Avoid driving at night if possible, especially on unfamiliar routes. Be prepared for security checkpoints.

Sea/River Arrivals

Water Access

Sulaymaniyah is a landlocked city, therefore sea or river arrivals are not applicable for reaching this destination.

Not Applicable

Ferry Services and Cruise Ports: Not applicable.
River Transportation Options: Not applicable.
Immigration Procedures at Seaports: Not applicable.

Land Connections

As water transportation is not a factor, all connections occur via land or air routes.

Connecting to Land Transport

Connections to Land Transportation: Not applicable directly from sea/river.
Inter-city buses and taxis serve as main land links.
Airports are the main international gateways.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

Pay attention to timing and airport procedures.

Checklist for Departure

Arrival Time: Arrive at Sulaymaniyah International Airport (SUL) at least 2-3 hours before your international flight's scheduled departure time. This grants ample time for check-in, security checks, and immigration procedures.
Security Checks: Expect thorough security checks upon entry to the airport terminal and again before boarding your flight. Prepare to remove electronics, liquids, and sometimes shoes. Cooperate fully with security personnel.
Check-in: Proceed to your airline's check-in counter. If you have checked luggage, confirm it meets weight and size restrictions.

Airport Facilities & Tips

Sulaymaniyah International Airport (SUL): The airport presents basic facilities for departing travelers. You will find cafes where you can purchase refreshments, duty-free shops for last-minute souvenirs, and comfortable waiting areas. Bus Stations: If departing by bus, facilities at bus stations are typically basic, offering waiting areas and small kiosks for snacks and drinks.

Smooth Departure

Immigration: After check-in, proceed to immigration for your exit stamp.
Boarding: Allow sufficient time to reach your boarding gate after passing through security and immigration.
Exit Fees: No specific exit fees or taxes for air travel from SUL are generally levied separately from your ticket price. These charges are usually included in the airfare.

Final Preparations

Flight Status

Confirm your flight status with your airline before heading to the airport. This keeps you informed of any delays or changes.

Documents

Ensure all your travel documents, including your passport and boarding pass, are readily accessible.

Currency

Keep any remaining Iraqi Dinars or USD for last-minute purchases.

Departure Checklist

Always confirm your flight details and transfer arrangements well in advance. This avoids any last-minute complications upon arrival.

How to Get to As Sulaymaniyah