Travelling to Iraqi Kurdistan in 2023

Travelling to Iraqi Kurdistan in 2023 is a popular topic for tourists who are looking for adventures and are keen on middle eastern cultures. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path travel destination, then Kurdistan is the perfect place for you. Located in the northern part of the country, Iraqi Kurdistan is an autonomous region with its own government, language, and culture. Although the country has had its share of political and economic turmoil, today it is a safe and welcoming destination for visitors.

Iraqi Kurdistan is a unique option for travellers looking for adventure, culture, and breathtaking mountains, and for those who are working hard to learn about less well-known places. And for those who want to get to know the most hospitable people in the Middle East.

Travelling is one of the most joyful feelings and a critical need to do. Travelling to foreign countries is a basic human need because when you travel you learn about new cultures and meet new people. You may approach some stuff and stories which You may never have believed that they do exist. And Taking yourself out of your comfort zone can help you discover things about yourself that you didn’t know before. You may find out that you’re more adventurous or independent than you thought and this can help you grow.

Psychologically, travelling helps you to relax mentally, and reduce mental pressure and stress in your life. Taking a break from work and everyday life can help reduce stress and help you relax. Based on scientific research in 2017 travelling is one of the most effective medical treatments for people with depression and anxiety.

Is Travelling to Iraqi Kurdistan safe?

Iraqi Kurdistan is an autonomous region located in the northern part of Iraq. the region is mostly populated by the Kurds and some other minorities such as Assyrians, Arabs and Turkmen.

Kurdish which is an Indo-European language, is the official language of Iraqi Kurdistan. In addition to Kurdish, Arabic and English are highly spoken.

The Kurds are the main inhabitants of the region. They have suffered a lot from previous Iraqi authorities. The Kurds are very friendly towards foreigners, They are extremely kind and hospital.

Tourists who spend time in Iraqi Kurdistan learn easily that Iraqi Kurdistan is completely the opposite of what people think and media projects. Therefore It’s an extremely safe region for travelling and even for living in.

In fact, in the year of 2018, an international website ranked Erbil as one of the safest cities in the world.

Kurdistan Region is the official name of the region. It consists of five provinces which are Erbil, Duhok, Sulaimani and Halabja. It’s worth mentioning that Kirkuk is a disputed city.

Tips on traveling to Iraqi Kurdistan

Travelling to Iraqi Kurdistan is completely safe and unique. Many famous YouTubers and bloggers have suggested travelling to the region

Iraqi Kurdistan is a very safe travel destination. Locals in Iraqi Kurdistan, I mean the Kurdish people, are some of the kindest people in the world. We must mention it in every blog we post. In fact, in Kurdish society, the Kurdish people must treat their visitors like precious jewels. Indeed their hospitality is limitless.

Here are few tips, before travelling to Iraqi Kurdistan in 2023 you must take into account:

• When travelling to Iraqi Kurdistan in you must understand the Kurdish culture well. Because some kinds of stuff are unacceptable among the Kurds. For example, Drinking alcohol in public places is highly unacceptable.
• Respect the elders! Kurdish people respect their elders highly because the elders are the most respected class among the Kurds
• Don’t address the Kurds as Iraqis because the Kurds always see themselves as a different ethnic group than the Iraqis
• Don’t talk about religion, because The Kurds are religious people, any small argument about Islam may make them angry. Although coexistence is the core of Kurdish society.
• Disrespecting religion is something highly unacceptable.
• Always to show respect to the security forces
• Always take with yourself your documents.
• When someone offers you a free drink, take it
• When a Kurd offers you something it means they respect you.
• Always show respect for kurdish flag and national struggle.

Travelling within Iraqi Kurdistan

Travelling within Iraqi Kurdistan is easy, You can take a taxi on the streets and ask them to take you to the destination you want. But it’s expensive to take a private taxi. There are terminals in every city which contact all cities together, there you can find buses, minibuses and shared taxis. They usually cost less than four dollars.

Visa Requirements

Getting an Iraqi Kurdistan visa is quite easy if you are a European citizen, or if you are an American citizen. Indeed citizens of European Union countries, USA, Canada, UAE and Japan don’t need a visa to enter Kurdistan.

It’s worth mentioning that According to the latest visa regulations, with an Iraqi visa, you cannot travel to Iraqi Kurdistan, because they have different visa policies. Lately Kurdistan activated its E-visa portal which may help you get the visa online.

So be aware that the Iraqi Kurdistan visa is valid within the borders of the Kurdistan Region.

If You are not citizen of mentioned countries, then you can get visa either through KRG representatives or online.

Since December 2022, tourists are not required to have either a vaccination certificate or a PCR test upon travelling Iraqi Kurdistan.

In conclusion, From its stunning mountain landscapes to its vibrant cities, Iraqi Kurdistan is full of unique experiences that will make your visit truly memorable. In Erbil, the region’s capital, you can explore its ancient citadel, a World Heritage Site, along with its bustling markets and vibrant nightlife.