How to Book Flights to Iraq – A Complete Guide

Booking a flight to Iraq might seem like a daunting task for first-time travellers, but with the right guidance, it can be straightforward and even exciting. Iraq is a country full of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins, discovering bustling cities, or taking in stunning landscapes, Iraq has something to offer everyone.

Step 1: Choosing Your Destination in Iraq

Before booking your flight, it’s essential to decide which part of Iraq you want to visit. Some of the most popular destinations include:

• Baghdad: The capital city, known for its historical significance and cultural attractions. Read more about Baghdad in our guide to the Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Baghdad.
• Erbil: A modern city with an ancient heart. Check out our article on Discovering Erbil to learn more.
• Basra: Iraq’s historic port city. Visit Basra: A Port City Full of History and Culture for more information.
• Karbala: A sacred city for religious tourists. Read more about it in Karbala: A Sacred City for Religious Tourists.
• Najaf: Another holy city, popular among pilgrims. Learn more in our article on Najaf: A Holy City and Pilgrimage Destination.

Each city has its unique attractions and experiences, so make sure to pick the one that suits your travel interests.

Step 2: Checking Flight Options

Once you’ve chosen your destination, the next step is to explore your flight options. Most international flights land in Baghdad, but you can also find flights to other cities like Erbil and Basra. Use flight comparison websites like Skyscanner or Google Flights to find the best deals. Be sure to check for:

• Non-stop flights: Direct flights are more convenient, but may be more expensive.
• Stopover options: You might find cheaper flights with stopovers in cities like Istanbul or Dubai.
• Baggage allowance: Double-check the baggage policy of your airline to avoid surprises at the airport.

You can learn more about how to travel to Iraq from the UK in our Complete Guide to Travelling to Iraq from the UK.

Step 3: Booking Your Flight

When you’ve found the right flight, go ahead and book it through the airline’s website or a trusted travel agency. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Book early: The earlier you book, the more likely you are to find better deals, especially during high seasons like Muharram and Ashura.
• Use reward points: If you have frequent flyer miles, this could be a great time to use them to reduce costs.
• Check visa requirements: Remember that travelling to Iraq requires a visa. You can read more about how to get a tourist visa in our guide on How to Obtain a Tourist Visa for Iraq.

Step 4: Preparing for Your Trip

Once your flight is booked, it’s time to prepare for your journey. Travelling to Iraq can be an exciting adventure, but it’s essential to plan ahead to make your trip safe and enjoyable.

• Safety: While Iraq is generally safe for tourists, it’s important to be aware of local conditions. Read our article on Is Iraq Safe for Tourists? A Detailed Overview.
• Travel tips: For first-time visitors, we’ve compiled a list of Essential Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors to Iraq, covering everything from health precautions to local customs.
• Travel apps: Downloading useful travel apps can make your journey smoother. Check out our article on the 5 Must-Have Travel Apps for Your Iraq Trip.

Step 5: Booking Accommodation

After booking your flight, the next step is to arrange accommodation. Iraq offers a wide range of options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. For more information on where to stay, visit our guide to Affordable Places to Stay in Iraq for Budget Travellers and Luxury Accommodation Options in Iraq.

Here’s a quick look at accommodation prices in some of Iraq’s major cities:

City	Budget Accommodation	Luxury Accommodation
Baghdad	£20–£40 per night	£100+ per night
Erbil	£15–£30 per night	£80+ per night
Basra	£25–£50 per night	£120+ per night

For more information on accommodation options, visit our guide to the Best Hotels and Accommodation in Baghdad.

Step 6: Planning Your Itinerary

Once you’ve booked your flight and accommodation, it’s time to plan your activities. Iraq is home to many fascinating historical and cultural sites. Some must-see attractions include:

• The Ziggurat of Ur: Learn more about this ancient wonder in our guide to the Ziggurat of Ur.
• Babylon: One of the most famous ancient cities in the world. Read more in our article on Exploring the Ancient City of Babylon.
• The Marshlands of Southern Iraq: A hidden gem of natural beauty. Discover more in The Majestic Marshlands of Southern Iraq.

For more inspiration on what to see and do, visit our guide to the Top 10 Reasons to Visit Iraq in 2024.

Step 7: Arrival in Iraq

Upon arriving in Iraq, it’s essential to have all your documents and travel arrangements in order. Make sure to have:

• Your passport and visa: Keep these in a secure place.
• Flight confirmation and accommodation details: Print copies or have them saved on your phone.
• Local currency: The official currency in Iraq is the Iraqi Dinar (IQD). It’s a good idea to have some cash for smaller purchases.

For more tips on making a smooth arrival, check out our Complete Guide to Visiting Iraq.

Step 8: Exploring Iraq

Now that you’ve arrived, it’s time to explore! Iraq is a country full of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Some popular ways to travel around include:

• Public transport: Buses and taxis are common in most cities.
• Private drivers: Many tourists prefer to hire private drivers for a more comfortable experience.
• Guided tours: These are a great way to explore key attractions with expert local knowledge. For more information, read our guide on How to Travel Around Iraq: Transportation Guide.

Step 9: Staying Safe

While travelling in Iraq, it’s important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Some key tips include:

• Stick to tourist areas: Avoid travelling to regions that are known for political instability.
• Follow local advice: Always listen to the guidance of your tour guide or local contacts.
• Respect local customs: Iraq has many cultural and religious traditions that tourists should be aware of. Read more in our guide on How to Respect Local Customs and Traditions in Iraq.

Step 10: Returning Home

When your trip is over, make sure to have your travel documents and souvenirs packed securely for your return flight. Double-check the time of your flight and make sure to arrive at the airport with enough time for security checks.

If you want to extend your trip and explore more of Iraq, consider visiting Mosul, Nineveh, or Southern Iraq’s Marshlands.

Conclusion

Booking flights to Iraq is the first step in what can be an unforgettable journey. From historical landmarks to beautiful landscapes, Iraq offers an array of attractions for every type of traveller. By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for your trip, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

For more detailed guides on travelling to Iraq, be sure to explore our other articles on Travel2Iraq.

Step	Details	Useful Links
1. Choosing Your Destination	Popular cities include Baghdad, Erbil, Basra, Karbala, and Najaf. Decide based on your interests (historical, cultural, religious).	Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Baghdad, Discovering Erbil, Karbala
2. Checking Flight Options	Use flight comparison websites, look for direct or stopover flights, check baggage policies. Flights often land in Baghdad, Erbil, and Basra.	Complete Guide to Travelling to Iraq from the UK
3. Booking Your Flight	Book early, use rewards, and check visa requirements.	How to Obtain a Tourist Visa for Iraq
4. Preparing for Your Trip	Stay informed about local safety, health, and travel apps to use during your visit.	Is Iraq Safe for Tourists?, 5 Must-Have Travel Apps
5. Booking Accommodation	Choose between budget, mid-range, and luxury hotels.	Affordable Places to Stay in Iraq, Luxury Accommodation Options
6. Planning Your Itinerary	Visit historical landmarks, religious sites, and natural wonders.	Ziggurat of Ur, Ancient Babylon, Iraq’s Marshlands
7. Arrival in Iraq	Ensure you have all necessary documents, including passport, visa, and currency.	Complete Guide to Visiting Iraq
8. Exploring Iraq	Travel using public transport, private drivers, or guided tours for a more personalised experience.	How to Travel Around Iraq
9. Staying Safe	Stick to tourist areas, follow local advice, and respect customs and traditions.	How to Respect Local Customs in Iraq
10. Returning Home	Double-check your return flight, pack important documents and souvenirs securely. Consider extending your trip to explore more of Iraq.	Mosul Guide, Nineveh