Arrival at Iraq FAQ’s
Situated in the heart of the Middle East, the Republic of Iraq is a predominantly landlocked nation with its economic engine fueled primarily by the export of fossil fuels. The landscape is defined by the majestic presence of the renowned Tigris and Euphrates rivers. Iraq shares its boundaries with three fellow OPEC Member Countries: the Islamic Republic of Iran, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. Anchoring this nation is Baghdad, the vibrant capital city of the Republic of Iraq.
Religious Sites in Iraq
Where Hospitality Embraces Spirituality
- The Holy Shrine of Imam Hussain – KARBALA
- Al Abbas Holy Shrine – KARBALA
- Al-Jawadain Holy Shrine – KADHIMIYAH
- Al-Askari Holy Shrine – SAMARRAH
- Holy Shrine OF Sayyid Muhammad- BALAD, SAMARRAH
- The Holy Shrine of Imam Ali – NAJAF
- Prophet Adam & Prophet Nooh – NAJAF
- Tomb of Prophet Ezekiel’s – AL KIFL
Tomb of Prophet Ayub – HILLA
- Tomb of Prophet Yunis – MOSUL
- Tomb of Salman Al Farsi – MADAIN
Shrine of Abdul Qadir Gilani – BAGHDAD
Before traveling to Iraq, it’s essential to secure your Visa from the country where you currently reside. If your journey to Iraq involves departing from Amman, Jordan, it’s advisable to possess multiple visas for Jordan to avoid any complications upon your return from Iraq.
fAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
Evening of Sun, Aug 25, 2024 – Mon, Aug 26, 2024
The date of Chehlum or Arbaeen in Iraq is set for August 26, 2024. This annual observance falls on the 20th day of the Islamic month of Safar. Arbaeen marks the culmination of a 40-day period of mourning for the martyrs of the Battle of Karbala. In the Arabic world, the 20th of Safar corresponds to August 26, 2023, while in regions including Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and other parts of the world, it is observed on August 25, 2024.
The frequently utilized airports for ziyarah include Najaf Airport and Baghdad Airport. It is advised not to select Basra Airport for arrival or departure due to travel restrictions associated with your ziyarah visa. There is a possibility of encountering delays and additional costs, as you might be redirected to Najaf or Baghdad for your journey.
- Complimentary 30-minute access to “Earthlink” Wi-Fi.
- If you are currently using the Asiacell network, open the application and locate the “spin the wheel” feature to receive free internet of up to 200MB.
Individuals holding a valid US passport or passports from the following countries (United Kingdom, People’s Republic of China, Russian Federation, French Republic, European Union countries, Canada, Switzerland, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea) are eligible for an entry visa upon arrival in Iraq through various border crossings (land, air, and sea). This visa will remain valid for a duration of sixty (60) days starting from the date of arrival. It is essential to consider the prevailing health and safety regulations upon entry.
Prerequisites:
- A valid travel document.
- A fee of $75 in cash, except for those of Iraqi origin, who should present evidence of Iraqi citizenship.
To obtain a visa for religious tourism and visiting holy sites in Iraq, follow these steps:
Requirements:
- Scanned passport
- Photo with a white background
- Single-entry visa: $50
- Multi-entry visa: $150
Additional Charges:
- Visa Agent Fee per Manifest: $50
- Najaf Airport Tax: $10 (NOT REQUIRED ANYMORE)
- Tourism Fee at Najaf Airport: $10 – $20 (NOT REQUIRED ANYMORE)
Foreign passport holders born in Iraq are also mandated to obtain a visa, which is available upon arrival. Notably, the visa fee is waived in this case. It’s important to possess a duly attested birth certificate, and the name on both the birth certificate and passport must match. Nevertheless, it’s prudent to note that specific airlines might demand a visa even for transit through Iraq. We recommend verifying with your airline whether an Iraq visa is necessary.
Foreign citizens must possess passports valid for a minimum of six months from the date of submitting their visa application.
For Travelers with Sticker Visa and Embassy Stamp:
Visa Office: If you already have a visa sticker with an embassy stamp, proceed to the designated visa office at the airport. They will verify your documents and place an entry stamp in your passport before directing you to immigration.
For Travelers with E-Visa:
Arrival: Upon landing, hand over your travel documents to your designated sponsor at the airport.
Visa Office Submission: Your sponsor will submit your documents to the visa office.
Photo and Stamp: The visa office will take your photograph and issue a visa sticker, which will be stamped onto your passport.
Immigration: Once the visa process is complete, you will be directed to immigration for entry clearance.
Visa on Arrival / Ministry of Interior Approval:
Cost: The cost for a visa on arrival (VOA) depends on your nationality and visa validity:
60-Day Validity: For nationalities from America or Europe Canada and Australia, the cost is approximately $82.
Pre-Invitation (Ataba visa): If you have a pre-arranged invitation for your visit, ensure your sponsor communicates with the relevant authorities beforehand to expedite the visa issuance process.
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The available facilities at the airport include:
- Restrooms
- Smoking room
- Exchange service
- Restaurant
- A compact prayer room
- Seating arrangements
- A tuck shop offering snacks and beverages
- Complimentary 30-minute access to “Earthlink” Wi-Fi
- Before proceeding to immigration upon arrival, ensure you have items for consumption, such as food or drink. Consider borrowing sim cards from previous travelers and topping up credit before your journey. You can now conveniently add credit via sim carrier applications using your credit cards. It’s advisable to carry a reasonable amount of Iraqi dinar, which can cover snacks at the airport and transportation to your destination, as exchange rates are less favorable at the airport.
After your immigration process is finalized, make sure to thoroughly check all your belongings before exiting immigration, as you won’t be allowed to return once you leave. Proceed to the luggage area to retrieve your baggage. If needed, you can purchase sim cards from the available booths.
The distance from Najaf Airport to the Holy shrine is around 15 minutes by car. Private cab charges typically range from 10,000 IQD to 15,000 IQD on a standard day. Shared rides can cost between 3,000 IQD to 5,000 IQD per person. During peak seasons, fares may double or even triple, depending on the number of Zuwwars (pilgrims).
For those arriving in Baghdad, direct cabs to Karbala or Najaf are available. The fares vary from 25,000 IQD to 40,000 IQD for a private cab.
Abbas Farnas Privatization:
Airport to Kazmain: Direct Taxi: It’s recommended to take a taxi directly from the airport to Kazmain. This will be the most convenient and time-saving option. The fare is approximately 35,000 Iraqi Dinars (IQD).
Considering Abbas Farnas: Not Recommended: Due to the privatization of Abbas Farnas, visiting there first and then continuing to Kazmain is not recommended.
Extra Costs and Inconvenience: If you choose to go to Abbas Farnas first, you’ll need to find a separate taxi with a special permit to enter the area. This will likely be more expensive (around 25,000 IQD) and time-consuming compared to going straight to Kazmain.
Recommendation:For a smoother and more cost-effective trip, it’s best to get a taxi directly from the airport and head straight to Kazmain.
It is recommended to purchase SIM cards at the airport, as it is more cost-effective.
The commonly used sim cards in Iraq are Asiacell or Zain. If you’re traveling in a group, it’s advisable to opt for the same sim cards, as calls within the same network tend to be more cost-effective. When obtaining a sim card, your passport will be required. Occasionally, sims are provided for free as part of a promotion, and charges are applicable for packages. The standard price for sim cards is 10,000 IQD, excluding any credit or packages.
You can acquire the preferred sim cards, activate them, and select the package that best suits your needs.
ZAIN SIM CARD
ANDROID / IOS
Card Recharging: *101#Card serial number#
Check Balance: empty SMS to 21777
| Internet Recharge card | Price/IQD | Recharge Card Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 10GB | 15,000 | 30 Days |
| 5GB | 7,000 | 7 Days |
| 3GB | 5,000 | 7 Days |
| Monthly unlimited | 40,000 | 30 Days |
These hotels are among the top choices for excellence in Najaf.
- Qasr Al Dur
- Anjuman e Faiz e Panjetani
- Al Sahla Land Hotel
- Aghnar Hotel
- Hotel ZamZam
These hotels are among the top choices for excellence in Karbala.
- Rotana (Rayhaan Karbala)
- The Baron Hotels and Restaurants
- Jannat Al Hussein
- Crystal Hotel
- Noor Al Zahra
- Naeem Al Waris
#Labbaykyahussain
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